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Insert vs INSERT INTO

sql
best-practices
sql-standards
portability
Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Oct 11, 2024
TLDR

When it comes to adding data to a SQL table, INSERT INTO is your SQL superhero, while INSERT alone is just a mere mortal. Check out the proper syntax:

-- Why did the data cross the road? To INSERT INTO the other table! INSERT INTO MyTable (Col1, Col2) VALUES ('Data1', 'Data2');

Remember to replace MyTable, Col1, Col2, Data1, and Data2 with your actual table name, columns, and data.

Breaking down the syntax

SQL is a land of many dialects, and it's the clarity and adherence to standards that guide us. INSERT INTO is the standard syntax for ensuring your narratives (data) find their rightful home (table).

Syntax variations in SQL dialects

Many SQL dialects like MySQL, allow the use of INSERT without INTO. But that's a short cut, and like taking a shortcut through the woods at night, it's best avoided unless you really know what you're doing.

Clarity across SQL dialects

There's a cornucopia of SQL implementations - T-SQL, PL/SQL, PostgreSQL, MySQL, etc. They might have their unique styles, but they all understand INSERT INTO.

Why 'INTO' matters: portability and future-proofing

Using INSERT INTO promotes portability across SQL platforms and can protect your code from future versions of SQL standards that might decide to enforce INTO more strictly. It's like sending your code to a fitness camp for supercharged, future-proofed code.

A Uniform Force: Consistency in Codebase

As developers, we often work in teams. Using INSERT INTO consistently across your codebase allows for easier onboarding and less googling between projects and SQL dialects.

Prepping for Future SQL standards

Just like fashion, SQL standards keep on evolving. Your queries, like your outfits, need to hit that perfect blend of timeless and ahead-of-the-curve.

Remember:

  • INTO lights up the destination sign.
  • Ignoring INTO could lead you into a spooky bug forest.
  • Treat your data as you would a well-written love letter. 💌📊

Considerations when using INSERT INTO

Working with ORMs

Your favourite ORM (Object-Relational Mapping) libraries, which automate DB interactions, like Sequelize or Hibernate, could stumble on non-standard SQL. Keep them happy with the standard INSERT INTO syntax.

Debugging and Error Handling

INSERT INTO guarantees clearer error messages if something goes awry, making your debugging journeys much more straightforward.

Following Best Practices

Shortcuts may be tempting, but in SQL land, it's best to stick with the scenic route - INSERT INTO. Your code will look prettier, and seasoned developers will give you a thumbs up.