Saving SQL queries in .sql file -- What Program to Use?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the best programs to use for saving SQL queries in a .sql file format. Participants explore various text editors and their features relevant to SQL syntax.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that a .sql file is simply a text file and can be created with basic text editors like Notepad.
  • Others recommend using text editors with syntax highlighting for better readability and usability, suggesting options like SQL Server Management Studio or Visual Studio, particularly for Microsoft SQL.
  • One participant mentions the limitation of not having access to recommended programs and suggests Notepad++ as a suitable alternative that recognizes SQL syntax.
  • Another participant expresses a preference for gedit as their favorite text editor for this purpose.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that a .sql file is a text file, but there is no consensus on which specific program is the best choice, as multiple suggestions and preferences are presented.

Contextual Notes

Some participants' recommendations depend on the specific SQL dialect being used, and there are varying levels of familiarity with different text editors.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals looking for advice on text editors for writing and saving SQL queries, particularly those new to SQL or without access to specialized software.

WWGD
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Hi all,
I have some queries to do, which I want to save as an .sql file. What program can I /must I use to do this?

I think I remember at some point using plain old Notepad to write the queries, since these are made
of standard English commands, nothing too fancy. Would this work?
Thanks.
 
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Yes, a .sql file is simply a text file.
 
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a .sql file is just a text file, but I would recommend mapping that extension to a text editor that does syntax highlighting at least. If it's Microsoft SQL, SQL Server Management Studio or Visual Studio are great and have autocomplete and all sorts of other great stuff.
 
DavidSnider said:
a .sql file is just a text file, but I would recommend mapping that extension to a text editor that does syntax highlighting at least. If it's Microsoft SQL, SQL Server Management Studio or Visual Studio are great and have autocomplete and all sorts of other great stuff.

Problem is I don't have those programs.
 
WWGD said:
Problem is I don't have those programs.

Notepad++ knows SQL syntax.
 
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gedit is my favorite.
 

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