In SQL predicates, the BETWEEN operator is used for which type of comparison when filtering rows in a WHERE clause?

Introduction / Context:
When filtering data by a lower and upper bound, SQL provides a concise predicate to express inclusive range checks. Correct use makes queries more readable and reduces errors compared with chained comparisons.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• You need to select values within a start and end boundary.
• The comparison can be numeric, date/time, or even text (collation dependent).
• Inclusivity of endpoints matters.

Concept / Approach:
BETWEEN is an inclusive range predicate equivalent to: column >= lower AND column <= upper. It is commonly used for dates (for example, order_date BETWEEN '2025-01-01' AND '2025-01-31') or numbers. It does not limit selected columns (that is SELECT list control) and is unrelated to wildcards or joins.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Compare results of WHERE x BETWEEN 10 AND 20 with WHERE x >= 10 AND x <= 20; they are equivalent.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Limit columns displayed: Use the SELECT list, not BETWEEN.
• Wildcard matching: Use LIKE with % or _ for patterns.
• None of the above: Incorrect because BETWEEN exists for ranges.
• Joining tables: Use JOIN syntax and ON conditions.

Common Pitfalls:
Using BETWEEN for datetime boundaries without considering time components; prefer half-open intervals or cast/normalize to avoid off-by-one-day errors.

Final Answer:
for ranges.