Microsoft SQL Server with Transact-SQL

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Learn essential skills

Course overview

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to working with Microsoft SQL Server databases using T-SQL. Using our live labs, you’ll gain experience with SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) helping you work confidently with databases and unlock new opportunities in data-driven roles.

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Master data skills that drive smarter decision-making

Designed for those looking to build or formalise their SQL skills, the course covers a wide range of essential topics. Starting with the basics of database structures and query writing, you’ll progress through advanced techniques such as joins, subqueries, built-in functions, views, indexing, and query optimisation.

Learning objectives

Write structured, purposeful queries
Apply techniques to filter, organise and summarise data
Combine data from different sources using multiple join types
Transform results using SQL Server’s built-in functions and logic
Understand how indexing can optimise database operations
Modify data with insert, update and delete commands
Create dynamic outputs using views and table-based expressions
Enhance the speed and efficiency of your queries

What you’ll learn

From writing simple SQL statements to handling more complex queries, this course covers everything you need to confidently work with Microsoft SQL Server. Learn how to create and manage database structures, join multiple tables, and retrieve, filter, and sort data effectively.

Querying and shaping data

Learn how to extract meaningful insights from your data using SQL. You’ll work with SELECT to retrieve specific information, use WHERE to filter results, and apply ORDER BY to organise your output. Also, discover practical techniques such as using DISTINCT to remove duplicates and OFFSET-FETCH to control result sets, helping you write cleaner, more targeted queries that support real-world reporting and analysis.

Combining data from multiple tables

Learn how to bring together information from across your database by writing joins that link related tables. You’ll explore how INNER, OUTER, CROSS and SELF joins work in practice, gaining a clear understanding of the best occasions to use each one. The course also covers table aliases, making your queries easier to write, read, and maintain, so you can handle multi-table queries with clarity and confidence.

Using subqueries and expressions

Explore how to add depth and flexibility to your SQL with subqueries that allow you to compare, filter, or return results based on complex conditions. You’ll work with both self-contained and correlated subqueries, and see how to use expressions like CASE to apply logic that customises your outputs. These skills will help you write smarter, more dynamic queries that adapt to your data.

Solving complex tasks with advanced SQL

Take your skills further by learning advanced SQL techniques that help you tackle more demanding data challenges. You’ll create reusable views, use Common Table Expressions (CTEs) for cleaner, more structured queries, and work with derived tables to shape data. The course also explores how to summarise and reshape results with pivoting. Plus, learn how to apply window functions for running totals, ranking, and comparisons, all essential for sophisticated reporting and analysis.

What’s included

5 days of instructor-led training in a live virtual classroom
Interactive hands-on live labs
All relevant course materials
Course completion certificate

Key facts

Ideal for

This course is designed for developers, DBAs, analysts and others looking to build their SQL Server skills.

Prerequisites

Aimed at beginners, you need no previous experience to do this course. However, an understanding of databases would be useful.

Learning experience

Our experienced trainers and interactive labs create a focused, practical environment – so you can put theory into practice from day one.

FAQs

This course takes you through all the key features of SQL. You’ll start with the basics and move on to advanced tools and techniques that are directly applicable in real workplace environments.

Is this course suitable for developers or analysts?

This course is ideal for both developers and analysts who need to work with data in Microsoft SQL Server. Whether you’re writing queries, building reports, or optimising performance, this course gives you the practical SQL Server skills you need.

How do I write a select query in SQL Server?

The SELECT query allows you to retrieve specific data from a table. In its simplest form, it includes the keywords SELECT and FROM, followed by the column names and table names. On this course, you’ll learn how to write clear, efficient queries to filter and sort results, ensuring you can extract the exact data you need from your database.

What tools will we use during the course?

The course uses SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), which is the primary development environment for those working with Microsoft SQL Server. SSMS gives you a practical workspace to write, test and run your SQL queries.

How can I improve query performance in Microsoft SQL Server?

Improving query performance involves writing efficient SQL code and using features like indexes to reduce the time it takes to retrieve data. You’ll also need to understand how SQL Server processes queries and how to analyse performance using built-in tools and metadata views. This course covers all of these areas. Learn how to structure your queries effectively, apply indexing strategies, and access performance insights to identify and resolve issues that slow down your database operations.

What our customers say

"Always good courses from ILX. The tutor explained the course very well."

Paul, Development Analyst, Application Support – Transport

"John is an exceptional teacher. His teaching style, clarity, and support have made a lasting impact on my learning journey."

Mihai, Junior Developer - Outsourcing

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