Postgresql syntax check without running the query

Run pre-flight checks on your SQL

Before launching your queries, ensure they are robust and reliable. Leverage tools and best practices to guarantee correctness.

Reign in your SQL with pgsanity

pgsanity checks your SQL syntax using the PostgreSQL parser—providing detailed error messages. It fits neatly into development workflows, ideal for pre-commit validation in CVS.

# install via pip
pip install pgsanity

# 'your_sql_file.sql' Using your SQL sense, young padawan
pgsanity your_sql_file.sql 
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Use EXPLAIN like a whispering SQL ghost

The EXPLAIN command indicates how PostgreSQL will execute your SQL. It provides a valuable execution plan while checking syntax—without altering data.

# The 'EXPLAIN' ghost, silently checking your SQL
EXPLAIN SELECT * FROM YourTable;
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Database clones: not science fiction, just good practice

Creating a clone of your production database allows for safe testing of SQL scripts. Treat it like a playground—test all you want, your real-world data remains safe.

Friend in need: is_sql()

The is_sql() function inside PostgreSQL enables on-the-fly syntax checks. Ideal for moments when you just need a quick second opinion on your syntax.

BEWARE: Transaction monsters can't be rolled back

Remember: some operations, like certain dblink calls, can't be rolled back—even within BEGIN / ROLLBACK transactions. Check these separately to prevent nasty surprises.

Standards are friends, not foes: Mimer SQL Validator

Mimer SQL Validator checks SQL against established standards—SQL-92, SQL-99, SQL-03. Think of it like a friendly compliance officer for your SQL playground.

GitHub: The community to the rescue

Check out community-driven tools on GitHub for SQL validation. It's like an ever-growing toolbox, built by developers, for developers.

Cooking up robust SQL: Beyond syntax

Not just correct, but efficient

Syntax is the start, but execution performance is critical. Use EXPLAIN ANALYZE for performance insights.

Make it reusable

Wrap common sequences in user-defined functions for reusability. It simplifies syntax checks and aids efficiency.

Test. Then test again

SQL testing frameworks enable repeatable tests on SQL snippets. Maintains sanity by checking not just syntax, but logic and outputs.

Become a SQL detective

Understand error messages at a deeper level. A syntax error may sometimes jumpstart a trail that leads to other issues, like missing database objects or permission problems.