How do I become a pro at SQL in roughly 2 weeks?

 Becoming a pro at SQL in just two weeks is an ambitious goal, but with the right approach, you can definitely build a solid foundation and significantly improve your skills. Here’s a focused, high-intensity plan to help you maximize your learning:

Day 1–2: SQL Basics & Setup

• Install and Set Up a Database: Choose a database system (MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, etc.) and install it. You can use tools like DB Browser for SQLite or MySQL Workbench for easy querying.
• Learn Basic SQL Syntax: Focus on:
  • SELECT, FROM, WHERE, GROUP BY, ORDER BY, HAVING
  • Filtering (=, <, >, IN, BETWEEN)
  • Basic aggregate functions (COUNT(), SUM(), AVG(), MIN(), MAX())
  • Sorting and Limiting results (LIMIT, DISTINCT)
  Try running queries on sample databases (e.g., Chinook DB).

Day 3–4: Intermediate SQL

• Joins: Master different types of joins (INNER, LEFT, RIGHT, FULL OUTER, CROSS).
• Subqueries: Learn how to use subqueries in WHERE, SELECT, and FROM clauses.
• Set Operations: Study UNION, INTERSECT, and EXCEPT.
• Data Modification: Learn how to insert (INSERT INTO), update (UPDATE), and delete (DELETE) records.

Day 5–7: Advanced SQL Techniques

• Window Functions: Learn powerful window functions like ROW_NUMBER(), RANK(), DENSE_RANK(), LEAD(), and LAG().
• Common Table Expressions (CTEs): Understand how to use WITH for better readability and recursive queries.
• Indexes & Query Optimization: Get familiar with how indexes work and when to use them to speed up queries. Learn about EXPLAIN to analyze query execution plans.

Day 8–10: Database Design & Normalization

• Normalization: Study the different normal forms (1NF, 2NF, 3NF) and understand how to design normalized database schemas.
• Relationships: Learn about primary keys, foreign keys, and constraints.
• Data Integrity: Understand how to enforce constraints (e.g., NOT NULL, CHECK, DEFAULT).

Day 11–13: Advanced Queries & Performance

• Advanced Joins: Learn about self-joins, and multi-table joins.
• Views: Study how to create and use views for simplifying complex queries.
• Transactions: Understand ACID properties and learn how to use COMMIT, ROLLBACK, and SAVEPOINT for transaction management.
• Performance Tuning: Dive deeper into query optimization, indexing, and database maintenance practices.

Day 14: Capstone & Practice

• Solve SQL Challenges: Practice with complex problems on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or SQLZoo.
• Build a Project: Create a small project where you interact with a database. Example: Build a simple app that tracks users, orders, or products.
• Review & Deepen Understanding: Revisit difficult concepts, read documentation (e.g., SQL Standard), and watch tutorial videos for areas where you feel less confident.

Tips for Success:

• Consistency is Key: Spend at least 2–3 hours a day working through problems and practicing queries.
• Hands-On Practice: SQL is learned by doing. Try to create your own queries based on real-world data.
• Ask Questions: Use Stack Overflow and SQL communities when you hit roadblocks.

By following this plan, you’ll build strong SQL skills in a short time. It’s a lot to tackle, but with focus and effort, you’ll be well on your way to becoming proficient! Let me know if you need any resources or have specific questions along the way!