SQL
SQL (Structured Query Language) is a standardized programming language used for managing and manipulating relational databases. It enables developers to perform basic database querying operations such as retrieving, inserting, updating, and deleting data, as well as defining database schemas and controlling access. SQL is essential for interacting with data stored in systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQL Server.
Developers should learn SQL because it is fundamental for any role involving data persistence, such as back-end development, data analysis, or full-stack applications. It is used to query databases to fetch specific information, optimize data retrieval, and ensure data integrity in applications ranging from simple websites to complex enterprise systems. Mastery of basic SQL querying is crucial for tasks like filtering results with WHERE clauses, joining tables, and aggregating data with functions like COUNT or SUM.