Raw SQL
Raw SQL refers to writing and executing SQL (Structured Query Language) queries directly in code, without using an Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) tool or query builder. It involves manually crafting SQL statements like SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE to interact with relational databases. This approach gives developers fine-grained control over database operations, allowing for optimized queries and direct access to database-specific features.
Developers should use Raw SQL when they need to write complex queries that ORMs cannot handle efficiently, such as advanced joins, subqueries, or database-specific functions like window functions in PostgreSQL. It is also essential for performance-critical applications where query optimization is crucial, and for tasks like database migrations or reporting that require precise control over SQL execution. Learning Raw SQL is fundamental for any developer working with relational databases, as it provides a deeper understanding of how data is stored and retrieved.