Mysql where NOT IN name array?

Dynamically generating the NOT IN list

Dealing with an array of values and want to use them with NOT IN? In PHP, you'd want to make use of implode() to yield a comma-separated list.

$unwantedNames = ['Wall', 'Profile', 'Cover', 'Instagram'];
// Throw those unwanted names out the window
$unwantedNamesList = "'" . implode("', '", $unwantedNames) . "'";
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Now you can use this list in your SQL:

$sql = "SELECT * FROM albums WHERE name NOT IN ($unwantedNamesList)";
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Preventing SQL injection: Sanitize, then sanitize again

We could all use some cleaners, but our databases even more so. Make use of prepared statements to prevent SQL injection:

$stmt = $conn->prepare("SELECT * FROM albums WHERE name NOT IN (?)");
$stmt->bind_param("s", $unwantedNamesList);
$stmt->execute();
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Before feeding any input data into your queries, always remember to sanitize and validate.

The importance of test-driving your SQL

After fitting your SQL with a NOT IN clause, test-drive it until you're sure it behaves exactly as expected when excluding values from results.

Keeping your data squeaky-clean

Ensuring the right type of data shows up

Check the validity of your array to ensure only expected data types are present. Harness PHP's filter functions for this:

array_filter($inputArray, 'is_string');
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Fending off injections like a pro

Parameterized queries are the knight in shining armor against SQL injection, separating data from SQL code for better security.

Tuning up with alternatives

Exploring the JOINed universe

Sometimes, using UNION or JOIN statements can be efficient alternatives to NOT IN for complex data exclusions. It's worth trying to join the party!

EXISTS vs. IN: The epic showdown

Checking for non-existence in a subquery? Weighing NOT EXISTS against NOT IN might just tip the scales in favor of performance enhancements in some cases.