Essentials
Assuming that you already know SQL’s Essentials, here are the essential things in PostgreSQL that you need to know.
1. PostgreSQL Basics
Understanding the basics of PostgreSQL is vital; this includes an introduction to PostgreSQL-specific syntax and the unique features that PostgreSQL provides.
Subtopics:
- Installation and setup
- Understanding PostgreSQL architecture
- Basic PostgreSQL commands
Further readings:
2. Data Definition Language (DDL)
Familiarity with PostgreSQL-specific DDL syntax and operations is a must.
Subtopics:
- Creating databases and tables
- Modifying tables (ALTER, DROP)
- Understanding and using different data types
- Indexes
Further readings:
3. Data Manipulation Language (DML)
Grasp the specifics of PostgreSQL DML operations.
Subtopics:
- Inserting data
- Updating data
- Deleting data
- Transactions and concurrency control
Further readings:
4. Querying
Being proficient in complex queries is a critical skill when using PostgreSQL.
Subtopics:
- SELECT statements
- Aggregate functions
- Joins
- Subqueries
- Window functions
Further readings:
5. Performance Tuning
Understanding performance tuning in PostgreSQL will be beneficial for creating efficient applications.
Subtopics:
- Understanding execution plans
- Query optimization
- Index tuning
Further readings:
6. Advanced Features
Explore the powerful features provided by PostgreSQL that may not exist in other SQL databases.
Subtopics:
- Full-text search
- JSON and JSONB data types
- Arrays and hstore (key-value pair) data type
- PostGIS (Geospatial data)
Further readings:
7. PostgreSQL Tools
Using PostgreSQL effectively also means knowing about the surrounding ecosystem of tools.
Subtopics:
- pgAdmin
- psql
- Backup and restore tools
Further readings: