Ways to create or modify tables in SQL Server:\nEvaluate the claim:\n\n"There is only one way to create and modify tables in SQL Server: writing SQL code using CREATE or ALTER."

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Incorrect

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
SQL DDL statements (CREATE/ALTER) are the authoritative way to define schema. However, SQL Server also provides graphical and programmatic alternatives that ultimately generate DDL under the hood. The statement that there is only one way is therefore too restrictive.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Tools like SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and Azure Data Studio exist.
  • Object-relational mappers (ORMs) and migration frameworks can emit DDL.
  • SMO (SQL Server Management Objects) and DACPAC/SSDT pipelines can deploy schema changes.


Concept / Approach:
While the database engine ultimately executes DDL, administrators and developers can author those changes via GUIs, scripts, automated migrations, or DevOps pipelines. SSMS designers allow table creation and alteration through dialogs that produce DDL. Migration tools generate and run versioned CREATE/ALTER scripts. Thus, “only one way” is incorrect.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Open SSMS → Object Explorer → New → Table → Save: engine executes CREATE TABLE generated by the tool.Run Entity Framework migrations → emits DDL for schema drift.Use SSDT/DACPAC publish profiles → deploys compiled model to target.


Verification / Alternative check:
Inspect the generated T-SQL from GUI actions; examine migration scripts in source control to see CREATE/ALTER emitted automatically.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Correct choices with platform caveats are irrelevant; alternatives exist across editions and platforms.
  • System vs. user tables: Both are created/altered via DDL; system tables are not altered by users.


Common Pitfalls:
Relying solely on GUI without scripting repeatable deployments; neglecting source control for schema.


Final Answer:
Incorrect

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