In SQL pattern matching, which keyword is used with wildcard characters (for example, % and _) to filter rows by a textual pattern?

Introduction / Context:
Filtering text using patterns is a frequent requirement. In standard SQL, wildcards are applied with a specific predicate that understands special characters such as percent and underscore.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We want to match patterns like names starting with 'An%' or codes with single-character placeholders 'A_3'.
• We are using standard SQL wildcards: % for any length, _ for a single character.
• We are not using vendor-specific full-text search predicates.

Concept / Approach:
The keyword LIKE evaluates a string against a pattern containing wildcards. IN and NOT IN test membership in a list or subquery result and do not interpret wildcards. Some legacy dialects have a MATCHES operator, but it is not part of standard SQL.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Run: SELECT * FROM t WHERE code LIKE 'A_3'; This returns rows where code has 'A', then any one character, then '3'.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• IN / NOT IN: Compare whole values; wildcards are treated as ordinary characters.
• MATCHES: Non-standard across engines; not the general SQL answer.

Common Pitfalls:
For case-insensitive matching, use functions or collations as appropriate. Avoid leading wildcards like '%term' on large tables without indexes suited for such searches.

Final Answer:
LIKE only