This is not a book about advanced SQL. It is not a book about the Oracle optimizer and diagnostic tools. And it is not
a book about relational calculus, predicate logic, or set theory. This book is a SQL primer. It is meant to help you learn
Oracle SQL by yourself. It is ideal for self-study, but it can also be used as a guide for SQL workshops and instructor-led classroom training.
This is a practical book; therefore, you need access to an Oracle environment for hands-on exercises. All the software that you need to install Oracle Database on either Windows or Linux for learning purposes is available free of charge from the Oracle Technology Network (OTN). SQL statements discussed in this book are explained with concrete examples. We focus on the main points,
avoiding peripheral and arcane side-issues as much as possible. The examples are presented clearly in a listing format.