For a basic SQL query, what is the correct canonical ordering of clauses to retrieve filtered data from specific tables?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: SELECT, FROM, WHERE

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
SQL statements follow a defined clause order. Although the logical processing order differs from the textual order, the written sequence for a standard SELECT statement must adhere to the SQL grammar to parse and execute correctly.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The query is a simple SELECT (no GROUP BY, HAVING, ORDER BY).
  • We want the correct written clause order for valid SQL syntax.
  • Standard SQL conventions apply across engines.


Concept / Approach:
The canonical written order begins with SELECT (what columns or expressions), then FROM (which tables or joins), followed by WHERE (row-level filters). Additional clauses like GROUP BY, HAVING, and ORDER BY come later when needed.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify the clauses to include: SELECT, FROM, WHERE.Recall the grammatical order: SELECT → FROM → WHERE.Select the option that matches this sequence.


Verification / Alternative check:
Test with: SELECT col FROM tab WHERE col > 0; The statement parses in all major RDBMSs.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Orders beginning with FROM or WHERE violate SQL grammar.
  • SELECT,WHERE,FROM misplaces the FROM clause and will not compile.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing written clause order with logical evaluation (FROM/WHERE logically precede SELECT). Despite that, the required written order starts with SELECT.



Final Answer:
SELECT, FROM, WHERE

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