List rows after specific date

sql

date-comparisons

sql-performance

best-practices

byAlex Kataev·Jan 7, 2025

Extract records newer than a certain date with a WHERE clause in SQL, as follows:

-- Running away from the past; because future is SQL
SELECT * FROM table_name WHERE date_column > 'YYYY-MM-DD';

For example, to retrieve records with a purchase_date after March 15, 2023, from the purchases table, do:

-- I'd buy me some time, but it's not for sale
SELECT * FROM purchases WHERE purchase_date > '2023-03-15';

Ensure that the 'YYYY-MM-DD' format aligns with your date_column format.

Understanding and managing datetime types

When working with datetime types, accuracy is key. SQL Server 2005 prefers the 'MM/DD/YYYY' format. It's, however, recommended to use the ISO 8601 format 'YYYY-MM-DDTHH:MI:SS' to avoid confusion:

-- The only dates I get these days
SELECT * FROM table_name WHERE date_column > 'YYYY-MM-DDT00:00:00';

Filtering within a date range

To retrieve records within a specific date range, employ the BETWEEN operator:

-- Caught between time and space
SELECT * FROM table_name WHERE date_column BETWEEN 'YYYY-MM-DD' AND 'YYYY-MM-DD';

Suitable for filtering data within a time period, such as a financial quarter.

Performing dynamic date comparisons

When handling dynamic date comparisons, consider functions like getdate() for current date or DATEADD for manipulating dates. For instance, to get records from the past week:

-- In case you're living in the past
SELECT * FROM table_name WHERE date_column > DATEADD(day, -7, getdate());

You'll always get records from the last 7 days. How timely, right?

Adjusting to the limitations of SQL Server

SQL Server 2005 has its limitations, especially in date handling. Be wary of these and prepare to adapt. Always research on the capabilities of the SQL Server version you’re working with.

Mastering the art of comparing dates

When comparing dates, getting the > or >= operators right is essential. Because details matter!

Ensuring uniform formatting

Keeping date formatting explicit and uniform across your database is paramount. It prevents unpredictable behaviors during querying. The ISO 8601 format is a common standard that ensures compatibility across platforms.