Can I Learn SQL in 3 Months?

Learning SQL within a three-month timeframe is achievable with consistent effort and a structured approach. The best way to learn SQL in 3 months would be to find immersive bootcamps or back to back classes that focus on providing you with the basics and giving you a good understanding of advanced concepts within the 3 month timeframe. 

How Much SQL Can I Learn in 3 Months 

The time it takes to fully learn SQL can vary based on factors like prior programming experience and learning style. However, learning the basics of SQL and even some advanced concepts is achievable in 3 months. One of the best paths to learn SQL in 3 months is bootcamps. Noble Desktop offers two.

Noble’s SQL Bootcamp is great for beginners. In SQL Bootcamp you’ll learn to extract information from databases by writing SQL queries, joining tables, aggregating data, and filtering results. You’ll also be introduced to PostgreSQL, but the concepts will equally apply to other databases such as SQL Server and MySQL. When you’re finished with this bootcamp, you’ll be able to filter data, group it, and turn raw data into insights as well as combine information from multiple tables using joining statements. More advanced techniques like subqueries and how to use functions with parameters are also part of the curriculum. 

Another great bootcamp option offered by Noble Desktop is the SQL Server Bootcamp. This bootcamp equips students with the skills needed to work with databases and extract valuable insights. In this hands-on course, you’ll learn Microsoft SQL Server and use the SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) app to explore databases and execute SQL queries. The course covers fundamental SQL concepts, including viewing tables, columns, and rows, as well as coding queries to extract specific information. Students also learn how to filter data, group it, and combine information from multiple tables using join statements. Additionally, the bootcamp delves into more advanced techniques such as aggregate functions and subqueries. The knowledge gained from this course can be applied to other types of SQL (such as PostgreSQL, Microsoft Access, MySQL, etc.) with minor syntax differences.

Noble Desktop also offers three courses that will start you with the basics and move you into advanced concepts if you have the flexibility for the schedule. 

Beginners will start with SQL Level 1. Students can expect to learn the fundamentals of SQL and relational databases, including SQL syntax, database tables, and writing SQL queries. This SQL starter course will provide you with strong foundational skills to explore the tables, columns, and rows stored in a database and write/code SQL queries to extract and start analyzing that data. Using practical, hands-on exercises, your expert instructor will guide you through understanding the basics of database architecture and will develop your skills in writing real SQL code. By the end of this introductory, hands-on course, you’ll be able to write basic SQL queries for Microsoft SQL Server and learn how to use the free SQL Server Management Studio app to explore the database and execute your SQL theories.

Once you’ve finished SQL Level 1, you can move on to SQL Level 2. In this intermediate SQL course, you’ll build on your knowledge of SQL fundamentals, enhancing your skills to join, filter, group, and analyze data. You’ll also learn how to group data and perform common statistical calculations using aggregate functions. SQL Level 2 focuses on how to use Outer Joins and find NULL data, how to group data and perform common statistical calculations using aggregator functions, and how to change the data type when it’s not what you need. By the end of this intermediate hands-on course, you’ll know more SQL techniques to extract and analyze the specific data you want from the database. This will enable you to more easily turn raw data into actionable insights.

With SQL Level 1 & 2 under your belt, you’ll be ready for SQL Level 3. This advanced course will take your SQL skills to the next level where you will learn about subqueries, views, variables, functions, stored procedures, and more. SQL Level 3 goes over how to add If-Else logic to queries using CASE statements, how to use string functions to get just the part of text you need, and show you how subqueries allow you to grab data from anywhere in a database. 

How Can I Learn SQL More Quickly?

Aside from bootcamps, you do have some other options to learn SQL quickly, but keep in mind the pace at which you learn is going to heavily depend on outside factors like your preferred learning style, availability, and goals. Make sure you choose a class format that is right for you and manage your time accordingly.

Free Resources

If you’re motivated and self-disciplined, free resources could provide you with a fast track to learning SQL. Platforms like YouTube host tutorials that provide a basic understanding of SQL concepts and tools. Additionally, many experts in the field create video content discussing SQL techniques, historical context, and various styles of database management. If you have specific questions or a particular interest in certain aspects of SQL, you’ll find a wealth of options to explore. However, relying solely on free online materials will always provide a surface-level education. Professional SQL training programs offer in-depth knowledge, practical experience, and mentorship that go beyond what free resources can provide. So, if you’re after anything more than the basics, this isn’t the best route to take.

On-Demand Courses

As a general rule, on-demand classes are best suited for students who need to learn a specific, beginner or intermediate skill as soon as possible, since once you enroll in an on-demand class, you are immediately able to start working on the material and consuming the lessons. This is especially useful if you have a background in SQL but need to learn how to work with tailored database queries. On-demand classes are an excellent way to pick up necessary skills and to help you overcome specific difficulties you are having in your projects or training very quickly, but they are likely to be significantly slower than SQL classes taught by live instructors if you are looking to get a more complete education.

Live-Online and In-Person Courses

On paper live-online and in-person courses might look like the longest route to learning SQL, but the time they take is necessary for some. If you’re wanting to learn SQL to gain an in-depth knowledge that will allow you to enter the workforce, this course structure is the one for you. Some might say you can’t rush perfection, others say you can’t rush SQL. You can find three courses at Noble Desktop that will take you from beginner to advanced in order to really prepare you for a career using SQL.

You'll start with SQL Level 1. You’ll learn the fundamentals of SQL and relational databases, including SQL syntax, database tables, and writing SQL queries. Using practical, hands-on exercises, your expert instructor will guide you through understanding the basics of database architecture and will develop your skills in writing real SQL code. By the end of this introductory, hands-on course, you’ll be able to write basic SQL queries for Microsoft SQL Server and learn how to use the free SQL Server Management Studio app to explore the database and execute your SQL theories.

Once you’ve finished SQL Level 1, you can move on to SQL Level 2. In this intermediate SQL course, you’ll build on your knowledge of SQL fundamentals, enhancing your skills to join, filter, group, and analyze data. You’ll also learn how to group data and perform common statistical calculations using aggregate functions. By the end of this intermediate hands-on course, you’ll know more SQL techniques to extract and analyze the specific data you want from the database. This will enable you to more easily turn raw data into actionable insights.

With SQL Level 1 & 2 under your belt, you’ll be ready for SQL Level 3. This advanced course will take your SQL skills to the next level where you will learn about subqueries, views, variables, functions, stored procedures, and more. SQL Level 3 goes over how to add If-Else logic to queries using CASE statements, how to use string functions to get just the part of text you need, and show you how subqueries allow you to grab data from anywhere in a database. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of SQL techniques that will better prepare you for roles in data analysis, data science, and working with data in databases.

What SQL Skills Will I Need to Learn After 3 Months?

Industries that use SQL knowledge and skills are growing more and more each day. When choosing the best SQL course, you’ll want to consider how you’ll use your SQL knowledge in terms of a future career. You’ll find that SQL is essential to various job roles.

For example, web designers create visually appealing and functional websites. They collaborate closely with clients to understand their vision and translate it into visually appealing designs. Once the design is approved, web designers code webpages or entire websites to ensure that they are responsive, accessible, and compatible with various devices and browsers.

Data analysts play a crucial role in extracting valuable insights from data to inform business decisions. They collect data from various sources, such as sales numbers, market research, logistics, or other behaviors. Using mathematical and analytical methods, they process and interpret complex data sets, identifying trends and patterns. By analyzing data, they provide actionable insights that help businesses make informed decisions.

Assurance (QA) engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that products or services meet required specifications and quality standards. They create and execute tests to find any issues with software before it is launched. QA engineers also collaborate with developers to address defects and track quality assurance metrics, such as defect densities and open defect counts. Overall, they contribute significantly to maintaining software quality and ensuring smooth product launches.

SQL developers design and maintain databases, ensuring their stability, reliability, and performance. They use structured query language (SQL) to manipulate data, implement database-driven solutions, and build applications. SQL developers create and optimize database structures, including tables, stored procedures, views, and indexes. They collaborate with teams and lead developers on code reviews and process enhancements, ensuring efficient data retrieval and storage. 

Carefully consider which career path interests you before enrolling in your SQL courses. Some might be more beneficial than others depending on your goals.