In an SQL SELECT statement, how must a subquery be enclosed syntactically?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: parenthesis -- (...)

Explanation:

Introduction / Context:Subqueries are nested SELECT statements that return intermediate results to the outer query. They are commonly used in WHERE, FROM, and SELECT clauses.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We are working with standard SQL syntax.
  • We must identify the delimiter required for enclosing subqueries.

Concept / Approach:SQL syntax requires subqueries to be enclosed in parentheses. This groups the subquery as a unit, distinguishing it from the main query.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Check valid SQL syntax: SELECT ... WHERE column IN (SELECT ...).Parentheses enclose the inner SELECT.Other brackets/braces are not recognized in SQL syntax.

Verification / Alternative check:ANSI SQL documentation shows parentheses around subqueries in all valid examples.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:Braces/brackets: Not part of SQL subquery syntax. CAPITAL LETTERS: SQL is case-insensitive, but capitalization does not define subqueries.

Common Pitfalls:Confusing SQL with programming languages that use braces or brackets.

Final Answer:parenthesis -- (...)

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