Learn SQL in a Month of Lunches (Final Release)

Use SQL to get the data you need in no time at all! Learn to read and write basic queries, troubleshoot common problems, and control your own business data in just 24 short lessons–no programming experience required!

In Learn SQL in a Month of Lunches you’ll master useful SQL skills like:

Write your own SQL queries
See only the data you need in large datasets
Easily filter, sort, and cluster data
Master basic data manipulation techniques
Safely create, update, and delete data


Structured Query Language (SQL) is the standard way to get specific datasets out of large relational databases. If you use Excel, Tableau, or PowerBI to crunch business data, you’ve probably seen a lot of SQL already. And guess what? It’s easy to master the most useful parts of SQL! In just a few quick lessons, you can learn to write your own queries, modify existing SQL statements, and add a new superpower to your bag of tricks.

Learn SQL in a Month of Lunches introduces you to the most useful parts of SQL for business data analysis. This practical book gives you instantly-useful techniques starting from the first short chapter. 25-year SQL veteran Jeff Iannucci makes SQL a snap through hands-on lab exercises, relevant code examples, and easy-to-understand language.

Purchase of the print book includes a free eBook in PDF and ePub formats from Manning Publications.

About the technology

For decades, Structured Query Language has been the standard way to talk to relational databases. Unlike many programming languages, SQL is easy to read and understand once you get the hang of it. You don’t need to be a data scientist—or even a tech professional—to master the most powerful features. For business data analysts, learning SQL empowers you to create better reports, uncover market insights, and freely explore large databases on your own.