Column aliases and readability: does SQL provide the AS keyword to assign meaningful output names to expressions and built-in function results in a SELECT list?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Correct

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Readable column headers help consumers of query results and downstream tools. This question asks whether SQL supports assigning aliases (via AS) to expressions, including built-in function outputs.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We are writing a SELECT with functions or expressions.
  • We want friendly names for result columns.
  • We consider standard SQL behavior.


Concept / Approach:
Aliases rename the output column: SELECT COUNT() AS order_count, UPPER(customer_name) AS customer_name_upper FROM ...; The AS keyword is optional in several DBMSs (you can write COUNT() order_count), but AS improves clarity. Aliases are also useful inside subqueries and common table expressions, where outer queries reference the alias.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify any computed columns or function outputs in the SELECT list.Add AS alias_name to each expression for readability.If using the result in a parent query, reference the alias.For names with spaces or reserved words, use quoted identifiers as required by the DBMS.


Verification / Alternative check:
Run the query and inspect column headers in the result grid—aliases should appear as defined, aiding users and BI tools.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Aliases are not limited to views or aggregates.
  • Quoted identifiers are needed only if the alias contains spaces/special characters; otherwise quoting is optional.
  • “Incorrect” ignores standard SELECT aliasing.


Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting that some DBMSs treat unquoted aliases as folded to lower/upper case depending on settings. Be consistent, especially when referencing aliases in ORDER BY.



Final Answer:
Correct

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