Generate insert SQL statements from a CSV file

sql

csv-to-sql

sql-injection

database-functions

byAnton Shumikhin·Nov 24, 2024

Here's a Python script that takes your CSV file and spits out beautiful, executable SQL INSERT commands:

import csv

csv_file = 'data.csv'
table = 'your_table'
insert_prefix = f"INSERT INTO {table} ("

with open(csv_file, 'r') as file:
    reader = csv.DictReader(file)
    # Python at work: Cooking up SQL commands like Jamie Oliver whips up a dish
    for row in reader:
        cols = ', '.join(reader.fieldnames)
        vals = ', '.join(f"'{row[field]}'" for field in reader.fieldnames)
        print(f"{insert_prefix}{cols}) VALUES ({vals});")

Note: This isn't the only way. There's a buffet of solutions coming. Stay tuned!

A Swiss knife approach for SQL generation

Excel, not just for spreadsheets

By leveraging Excel, creating SQL statements is a piece of cake. Just utilize the built-in string concatenation functions, and you've got yourself readable SQL INSERT commands.

Online tools: Your friendly neighborhood converters

Online tools like numidian.io and convertcsv.com turn CSV to SQL transformations into a cakewalk, protecting sensitive data as they do not require uploads.

Awking it: Text processing meets SQL

If you're more Unix-inclined, awk can be a lifesaver. With its powerful field delimiters and references, creating custom SQL statements is child's play.

Emergent scenarios post CSV data load

After the CSV data loads, you can do more than simply insert. How about updating the database with guids and lookup IDs to keep data sparkling clean and consistent?

Ensuring data integrity with transactions

Leverage transactions to safeguard your data during a CSV import. Don't forget, errors are as common as pigeons in the city.

Unleashing the power of subqueries

Relational data insertion can be tricky. Let subqueries come to the rescue—they ensure that all foreign key constraints are respected, and your data remains unscathed.

Painting over missing data

A CSV file with missing fields is like a garden with patches of dirt. Use database functions and subselects to cover these with lush green data.

Preemptive measures and smart practices

Guarding against hardware constraints

Watch out for hardware constraints. Don't forget what Uncle Ben said to Peter, "With great volumes of data, comes great responsibility." So, batch your SQL inserts.

Safeguarding from SQL injection

Potential harmful characters in your CSV data could be as treacherous as Voldemort in Harry Potter. Defend your code against SQL injection with prepared statements.

Recognizing dataset peculiarities

Remember, date formats, locale-specific data, and empty fields can stir up a hornet's nest. Arm your code to handle these.

Adjusting to DB compatibility

SQLite, MySQL, PostgreSQL...Every database has its own personality and syntax requirements. Make it a point to get acquainted with them.

Streamlining CSV to DB translations

If CSV to SQL conversions is your daily bread, consider automating the task. Just like Bruce Wayne's gadgets, a script can be your secret weapon, saving time and reducing error.

explain-codes / Sql / Generate insert SQL statements from a CSV file

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