Sql Server 2008 - IF NOT EXISTS INSERT ELSE UPDATE

Handling bananas... Err, data types

Working with date and time types? Time to talk about casting or conversion. When you compare apples to apples, or in this case dates to dates, it's all peachy 🍑. Syntax errors begone!

You can paint with all the colors of the wind with CONVERT(VARCHAR, GetDate(), 101) to get the date part from the current date-time. Neat, huh?

The performance tango

Dancing with SQL Server? You just need to know the steps, and when to tango! The MERGE statement, while incredibly handy, can be very thirsty for resources, especially with large datasets. Remember not to flood your loops with MERGE statements - they're not lifeboats! Test and tweak your performance as needed.

Avoiding syntax potholes

The SQL road can be a bit bumpy. Here are some driving (coding) tips:

• Use parentheses to set the order of operations straight. They're like traffic signals!
• Variables are your GPS, helping you navigate through your script's dynamic values.
• Testing beats guessing any day!
• Stumbled upon a surprise? It might just be a feature! Refer to the SQL Server documentation or trusted online resources when in doubt.

Keeping your code squeaky clean

Maintaining your SQL script is easier with some spring cleaning tips:

• Simplify logic where possible. Think of it as decluttering your SQL home.
• Organize your queries. Using sub-queries or CTEs improves clarity, like stacking your documents into neat folders.
• Consistent naming conventions are better than breadcrumb trails. Make your code Hansel-and-Gretel-proof!

Additional considerations

Time travelers and CURRENT_DATE in filters

Jumping through time? Use CURRENT_DATE() within the WHERE clause:

WHERE Target.DateField = CURRENT_DATE()
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The flux capacitor of SQL!

Inner select: The secret sauce

Need some extra filtering in your ON clause? Use an inner select:

USING (SELECT * FROM AnotherTable WHERE Condition = 'Value') AS Source
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That's some spicy SQL!

Transaction wrap: Safety first

Prevent your database from going 'kaput' if something goes rogue! Wrap the MERGE in a transaction:

BEGIN TRAN
-- Your trusty MERGE statement goes here
COMMIT TRAN
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Better safe than sorry, eh?