4 Free resources to master SQL (with Learning tips)
In my previous article, I shared the 4 step process that helped me land an analytics job. I received many DMs requesting me to share the free resources which I used to learn the analytics tools.
The first step I took in my analytics journey was to understand the database fundamentals and SQL. Since I had a pretty good knowledge of Excel even before learning analytics, I started with SQL.
In this article, I’m sharing the free SQL resources in the chronological order below. It takes anywhere between 1–2 month (depending on your effort) to complete all these 4 steps to master SQL.
1) Learn Database fundamentals
The below YouTube playlist by 365 Data Science gives you brief yet essential information regarding relational databases and basic SQL queries.
You can further research of Google if you find some difficulty in understanding the concepts explained in the playlist. Personally, I felt the playlist was simple and easy to understand
2)Learn Basic SQL from a simple course
In the next step, I completed a free Khan Academy course on SQL. It gradually takes you near intermediate level of proficiency in SQL.
Also, it has simple projects at the end of each module.
3) Practice SQL from basic to advanced
Followed by this, I watched various SQL playlists and guided portfolio projects on “Alex The Analyst” YouTube channel by Alex Freberg.
He has provided basic, intermediate and advanced level playlists for SQL. You can also build a project portfolio using his videos as a reference.
4) Solve SQL problems
Finally, I practiced solving SQL problems from basic to advanced using HackerRank (58 challenges) and received a gold badge.
The solutions are available on the internet, but go for them only when you are stuck in a challenge for a long time. It also has certification tests for SQL basic and intermediate. You can clear the tests and get certified too.
More Learning Tips
My learning didn’t stop here, but these 4 resources helped me get my basics straight. I still learn new concepts in SQL regularly. Here are a few learning tips to make sure you master SQL:
- Please have a handwritten notebook/Word file to note down important points during your learning. Trust me, it’s a game-changer. It helped me revise quickly before each interview and will be useful throughout your analytics career.
- You may use W3Schools web tutorial on SQL for references. It helps you with syntax and examples on various SQL functions and statements.
- Bonus Tip: Create a SQL project portfolio in Github. It’ll help you while appearing for job interviews.
Note: These resources worked for me, but if you feel it doesn’t help you, do go for paid courses that provide a structured learning experience.
If you feel this article was helpful, share this with your friends/colleagues looking to master SQL to enter into the data analytics/data science domain.
You can reach me using LinkedIn for any queries.
Have a good day!
