1. What is this?
A database stores organised data. A table is a spreadsheet-like grid: rows are records (one user each), columns are fields (name, age). SQL (Structured Query Language) asks questions. SELECT name FROM users means 'show the name column from the users table'. * means all columns.
2. Why do we use it?
Every app with accounts, orders, or posts keeps them in a database. Reading with SELECT is the most-used skill.
3. Syntax breakdown
SELECT name FROM users;
SELECT picks columns. FROM picks the table. Semicolon ends the statement.
SELECT * FROM users;
* means all columns.
-- a comment
Two dashes start a comment, ignored by the engine.
5. Common mistakes
- Forgetting the semicolon — most engines require it between statements.
- Misspelling a column or table name (names are case-sensitive in some systems).
- SELECT * in production code — list the columns you actually need.
Practice task
Select only the name column from users.
Hint
Replace * with name.
Try it below — tests run automatically when you press Run.
Output
Press Run to see output.
Mini quiz
3 questions. Answer, then check.
1. What is a table?
2. What does SELECT * mean?
3. What does FROM pick?