1. Codecademy

Codecademy offers an interactive SQL course designed for beginners. The course features hands-on coding exercises with instant feedback, making it easy to learn and practice SQL step by step. This platform is ideal for those who prefer learning by doing.

Key Features

• Interactive coding challenges
• Instant feedback on exercises
• Beginner-friendly tutorials

Codecademy provides a smooth learning experience with its sleek interface and a deep reservoir of exercises. This makes it a great resource for students who want a professional feel to their learning process.

Codecademy is a valuable resource for anyone looking to start their journey in SQL, offering structured, interactive lessons that make complex concepts easier to grasp.

2. Khan Academy

Khan Academy offers a comprehensive course titled Intro to SQL: Querying and Managing Data. This course is ideal for beginners who want to dive into SQL for the first time. It covers everything from basic SQL queries to more advanced topics, such as relational queries and modifying databases.

The course is structured to help you understand SQL basics in a fun and easy way. It includes:

• Advanced SQL queries
• Relational queries in SQL
• Modifying databases with SQL
• Further learning in SQL

Ideal for a deeper dive into SQL and all of its moving parts with step-by-step instructions in this free course. Start the free class online here.

3. SQLZoo

SQLZoo is an excellent resource for those starting their SQL journey. It offers a structured set of interactive SQL tutorials and exercises, allowing you to practice SQL queries directly in your web browser. The tutorials cover a wide range of SQL topics, ensuring you can progress at your own pace.

Despite its simple interface, the exercises are easy to follow, and plenty of real-world examples help you understand the different ways to apply SQL. You can write your SQL query, submit it, and see the results immediately. If you input the wrong answer, you'll get immediate feedback.

SQLZoo also covers advanced concepts like GROUP BY, Indexes, Views, SQL Joins, Sub-queries, and handling NULL values in SQL. Additionally, it features several SQL quizzes to test your knowledge.

SQLZoo is one of the best resources to learn and master SQL online, and it's FREE. Every programmer interested in SQL can benefit from this site.

4. SQLFiddle

SQLFiddle is a web-based tool designed for those who want to practice SQL in a real-world context. This platform allows you to write and execute SQL queries across various database systems such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQLite. It's perfect for mastering SQL basics for beginners at your own pace.

Cool Features

• Test on Different Systems: You can practice SQL on different systems like MySQL and PostgreSQL.
• Feels Real: It’s like playing with a real database.

Pros

• Learn on Real Systems: You get to know how SQL works on different databases.
• Share Your Work: You can show your SQL to others and ask for help.
• See Results Right Away: It quickly tells you what happened after you run a query.

Cons

• Not for Advanced Users: If you’re already good at SQL, you might find it too basic.
• Paid Features: Some advanced stuff might need a paid subscription.

5. SQLCourse.com

SQLCourse.com offers a wealth of interactive SQL lessons and tutorials, perfect for self-paced learning. Despite its outdated appearance, the site is packed with valuable resources for both beginners and advanced users.

Beginner Course

The beginner course covers basic SQL commands and syntax, such as how to insert, update, and delete information from tables. You can practice these skills using the free online SQL interpreter.

Advanced Course

The advanced course builds on the beginner course, offering more complex SQL concepts and techniques.

SQL Lessons and Tutorials

Each resource includes easy-to-follow lessons and interactive practice sessions. The site also features a blog page featuring a variety of SQL articles for beginners to professionals. Subscribe for updates and compare SQL learning platforms. Free introductory SQL course available.

SQLCourse.com is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to master SQL without spending a dime.

6. W3Schools

W3Schools offers a comprehensive and beginner-friendly SQL tutorial. The platform includes interactive examples and exercises that allow you to practice SQL in a structured manner. The tutorials cover various SQL topics, making it a valuable resource for beginners. W3Schools is known for its user-friendly interface, featuring a sidebar table of contents and straightforward examples.

• Website: W3Schools SQL Tutorial
• Skill Level: Beginner

The W3Schools SQL tutorial provides short and clear lessons with relevant examples to help you learn the basics. Like many other resources on this list, the W3Schools tutorial also has quizzes you can take to test your progress and learn from your mistakes.

7. FreeCodeCamp

FreeCodeCamp is a valuable resource for learning tech skills, including SQL. They offer a comprehensive SQL course on their website, freecodecamp.org, and their YouTube channel. This course has garnered over 7 million views, making it one of YouTube's most popular free SQL courses. Designed for beginners, it covers essential topics in SQL and database management systems.

Students can use this resource alongside other interactive coding courses to elevate their skills to the next level.

8. Coursera

Coursera is a fantastic platform to learn SQL, offering a variety of courses from top universities and institutions. Many courses are free to audit, allowing you to access high-quality content without any cost. If you opt for certification or specialization, you'll gain access to additional features like graded quizzes and peer-reviewed projects.

Here are some notable SQL courses available on Coursera:

• SQL for Data Analysis by Mode
• Introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL) by the University of Michigan
• Data Warehousing for Business Intelligence by the University of Colorado Boulder

Coursera's SQL courses are highly rated, with many learners praising the comprehensive curriculum and practical labs. Whether you're a beginner or looking to advance your skills, Coursera has something to offer.

9. Udemy

Udemy is a versatile platform offering a wide range of courses, including many free options to learn SQL. Top companies choose Udemy Business to build in-demand career skills, making it a trusted resource for learners. You can find free introductory lessons with hands-on projects, personalized support, and industry insights. Instructor Eric Vanier offers expertise in SQL, database performance, and education.

Key Features

• Extensive collection of free and paid courses
• Hands-on projects and personalized support
• Industry insights from experienced instructors

For those looking to jumpstart their SQL journey, Udemy provides an excellent starting point with its comprehensive resources and expert guidance.

10. EdX

EdX is a renowned platform offering high-quality courses from prestigious universities like MIT and Harvard. Their SQL courses are no exception, providing top-notch education for free. The courses are sourced from universities including MIT and Harvard, and their free SQL classes are no different.

What You'll Learn

• SQL basics and advanced concepts
• Practical query writing skills
• Database management

How You'll Learn

This course spans 2 weeks, with each week requiring 8-10 hours of study. You'll primarily learn through lecture videos and hands-on SQL exercises.

Course Details

No credit card required. Sign up to start learning and master SQL basics at your own pace.

EdX offers a wide range of courses to help you advance your knowledge and career. Whether you're looking to improve your technical skills or explore new subjects, EdX has something for everyone. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn from top universities and industry leaders. Visit our website to find the perfect course for you and get started today!

Conclusion

Mastering SQL is an essential skill for anyone looking to excel in tech-related fields, and the best part is that you can do it for free. From interactive platforms like SQLZoo and SQLFiddle to comprehensive courses on Khan Academy and Codecademy, there are numerous resources available to help you learn and practice SQL at your own pace. Whether you're a marketer, salesperson, or aspiring developer, these free resources will equip you with the knowledge you need to ask better data-related questions and take your career to the next level. So dive in, explore these tools, and start your journey to becoming proficient in SQL today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SQL?

SQL, short for Structured Query Language, is the standard language for communicating with relational databases. It's relatively simple but incredibly powerful.

Why should I learn SQL?

Learning SQL is essential for anyone who works with data. It helps you manage and manipulate data, making it easier to generate insights and make data-driven decisions.

Are these resources really free?

Yes, all the resources listed in this article are free. Some may offer paid options for advanced features, but the basic learning materials are available at no cost.

Can I practice SQL online?

Absolutely! Websites like SQLZoo and SQLFiddle allow you to practice SQL queries online, helping you improve your skills.

How long does it take to learn SQL?

The time it takes to learn SQL varies depending on your prior experience and the amount of time you dedicate to learning. However, many people can learn the basics in a few weeks.

Is SQL only for developers?

No, SQL is useful for a wide range of professionals, including marketers, salespeople, and data analysts. Understanding SQL can help you make better data-driven decisions in various fields.