In standard SQL classification, the INSERT command falls under which sub language category?

Introduction / Context:
SQL is often divided into sub languages based on the purpose of different commands. Understanding these categories helps you classify statements and reason about their impact on the database. The INSERT command is used to add new rows of data into a table, and this operation belongs to one of the standard SQL sub language groups.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The SQL language is divided into DDL, DML, DCL, TCL, and sometimes DQL.
• INSERT is a command that creates new rows of data in a table.
• The question asks for the correct sub language category.
• Options list DCL, DQL, DML, DDL, and TCL.
• We assume standard textbook definitions of these categories.

Concept / Approach:
Data Manipulation Language DML commands are responsible for changing the data stored in tables. Typical DML commands include INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, and sometimes MERGE. Data Definition Language DDL commands such as CREATE and ALTER modify the structure of database objects. Data Control Language DCL commands such as GRANT and REVOKE manage permissions, and Transaction Control Language TCL commands such as COMMIT and ROLLBACK manage transactions. Data Query Language DQL often refers primarily to SELECT.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify that INSERT adds new rows of data to an existing table. Step 2: Recall that DML is the category of commands that manipulate table data by inserting, updating, and deleting rows. Step 3: Recognise that DDL commands do not change data contents but instead define or alter table structures. Step 4: Note that DCL and TCL focus on permissions and transactions, not directly on modifying data rows. Step 5: Conclude that INSERT belongs in the DML group.

Verification / Alternative check:
Most SQL documentation and certification guides explicitly list INSERT under DML along with UPDATE and DELETE. They treat SELECT either as part of DML or as DQL, but INSERT is consistently classified as DML. This confirms the chosen category.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A, DCL, is incorrect because DCL handles security and permissions, not data insertion. Option B, DQL, usually refers to SELECT queries that read data rather than modify it. Option D, DDL, concerns creating or altering database structures and does not describe data insertion. Option E, TCL, manages transactions and does not itself insert rows.

Common Pitfalls:
Learners sometimes confuse DML with DDL because both types of commands affect the database, but at different levels. Another pitfall is grouping all commands that appear in scripts under one category instead of matching them to their actual purpose. Remember that DML statements directly manipulate the data in existing tables.

Final Answer:
The INSERT command is classified as Data Manipulation Language DML..