In SQL, which statement is used to retrieve data arranged in rows and columns from one or more tables (optionally with filters, joins, and ordering)?

Introduction / Context:
Structured Query Language (SQL) provides a declarative interface for retrieving and manipulating relational data. The most frequently used operation is reading data for reports, screens, and analytics. Identifying the correct statement is foundational for anyone learning SQL.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We need to fetch rows and columns from tables or views.
• The query may include WHERE, JOIN, GROUP BY, HAVING, and ORDER BY.
• We seek the standard SQL verb for data retrieval.

Concept / Approach:
The SELECT statement retrieves data from one or more tables or views. It specifies the columns to project, the source tables, and optional clauses to filter, aggregate, and sort results. Other words like “CHOOSE,” “LIST,” or “BROWSE” are not SQL verbs, though user interfaces might use them informally.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
All mainstream RDBMSs (PostgreSQL, SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle) implement SELECT as the query verb for data retrieval.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• CHOOSE/LIST/BROWSE: not SQL statements; may be menu labels in tools.
• None: incorrect because SELECT is the standard.

Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting necessary filters causing large scans; misunderstanding JOIN semantics leading to duplicates; omitting ORDER BY and expecting deterministic order.

Final Answer:
SELECT