In SQL, the set of query and modification commands (used to insert, update, delete, and retrieve data) make up which language category?

Introduction / Context:
SQL is divided into several sublanguages: DDL (Data Definition Language), DML (Data Manipulation Language), DCL (Data Control Language), and TCL (Transaction Control Language). Understanding these categories helps distinguish schema design from data manipulation tasks.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Query commands like SELECT are considered retrieval.
• Modification commands include INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE.
• The question asks for the category containing query and modification.

Concept / Approach:
DML (Data Manipulation Language) encompasses SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE. DDL (Data Definition Language) covers CREATE, ALTER, DROP, and related schema changes. HTML and XML are markup languages unrelated to SQL categories.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
SQL textbooks and ANSI SQL standards list SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE under DML.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
DDL: Defines schema.
HTML/XML: Markup for documents, not SQL sublanguages.

Common Pitfalls:
Some people mistakenly think SELECT is DQL (Data Query Language), but in practice SELECT is grouped into DML by ANSI standard.

Final Answer:
DML