Convert INT to VARCHAR SQL

Avoiding pitfall level bosses

Boss1: Choosing the right weapon...length!

It's a game of pinpoint accuracy. Failed shots can lead to terrible data truncation or undesired padding. A handy dagger? VARCHAR(10). Great for slashing through 32-bit integers.

Boss2: Overgrown numbers

Hunted by a mammoth-sized number? BIGINT in sight? Better take out that VARCHAR(20), you'll need the extra space for the negative sign.

Boss 3: Special effects with STR

Some foes require finesse not force. Want leading zeros or fixed decimal places? Dazzle them with the STR spell:

SELECT STR(int_column, length, decimal) FROM table;
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The length and decimal runes shaping your weapon. By default, STR spell conjures a 10-character string enchantment, including decimals and spaces.

Diagnosing revolts and treating them

Revolt 1: Error 257's uprising in Sybase

A rebellion reflected as Error 257 in Sybase? Quench it by declaring types explicitly and with precision:

SELECT CONVERT(varchar(10), int_column) FROM table_name;
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In the kingdom of databases, always make sure your column and table names are spot on. No room for impostor naming errors!

Revolt 2: Obliging VARCHAR without a sidekick

Sometimes, size doesn't matter. We have LTRIM to cut right to the chase, removing leading spaces, gracefully converting numbers to text:

SELECT LTRIM(str_column) FROM table_name;
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Revolt 3: Strings strung on deception of implicit conversions

While on a quest, beware of the labyrinth. Implicit conversion works in realms like SQL Server. But if you unknowingly tread on mixed-type operations, you might fall into a trap of unexpected results!

Debugging the debug: checks and balances

Checkpoint 1: Say no to double casting

Double casting, while sounding fancy, adds unnecessary loops and overworks the hamsters powering performance. One cast, one victory! Reserve NVARCHAR for the Unicode warriors only, they deserve it.

Checkpoint 2: Stop BIGINT conversion bulimia

Does your typical integer need to go through the BIGINT metamorphosis before VARCHAR? Probably not. It’s a performance-assassin and through terrible ninja skills.

Checkpoint 3: The name game accuracy

Column and table names are like your kids, make sure you spell them right! This prevents silly but hair-pulling syntax errors. Sometimes, a simple typo can launch you on a wild wolf hunt!

The CAST alternatives knights

Knight 1: The ever ready CONVERT command

In lands of Sybase or SQL Server, CONVERT is a steadfast friend:

SELECT CONVERT(varchar(255), int_column) AS formatted_string FROM table;
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Especially when you demand control over the format output, such as date and time halos.

Knight 2: The gentle TRY_CAST and TRY_CONVERT

Some knights prefer a less combative approach. TRY_CAST and TRY_CONVERT give it a try, but instead of a failed quest, they return NULL with dignity:

SELECT TRY_CAST(int_column AS VARCHAR(255)) FROM table;
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