What is the equivalent of 'describe table' in SQL Server?

sql

database-documentation

metadata-visibility

sql-scripts

byNikita Barsukov·Dec 31, 2024

Short and crisp, here are two SQL Server equivalents of DESCRIBE TABLE in MySQL:

Use the sp_help stored procedure:

sp_help 'TableName'; -- because SQL secrets shouldn't be kept from us!

This returns a detailed overview of the table's columns, their types, and other crucial table info.

Query the INFORMATION_SCHEMA.COLUMNS view:

SELECT COLUMN_NAME, DATA_TYPE, IS_NULLABLE
FROM INFORMATION_SCHEMA.COLUMNS
WHERE TABLE_NAME = 'TableName'; -- Give me answers, Oracle...wait...wrong DB!

The above statement will return specific column details including their names, data types, and also whether they allow null values or not. For the sake of performance and automation, always consider using T-SQL commands over GUI tools like SQL Server Management Studio.

Advanced Querying

Unlock the power of advanced querying, stewarding complete control over your table info:

Custom Views with `INFORMATION_SCHEMA`

For a customized look into your table's structure, directly querying INFORMATION_SCHEMA views allows freedom and granularity unachievable from pre-set procedures.

The Workhorse: `sp_columns`

If you want a detailed insight into column definitions, there's sp_columns prescribed just for you. It provides a detailed breakdown of column data types.

EXEC sp_columns 'TableName'; -- Table details spill the beans!

Quick Info with a Shortcut

Are you using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)? Reveal your table's details with this handy spell: ALT+F1. Select the table name, conjure this charm, and behold the summary.

These approaches can help you unpack complex table structures and build robust, data-informed T-SQL scripts.

Real-World Scenarios

Recognize how key commands foster better results in SQL Server environments:

Safeguarding Permissions

In environments where user permissions are tightly controlled, metadata visibility can be a privilege. For such situations, sp_help and INFORMATION_SCHEMA are tools that provide information without compromising security or requiring exceptional permissions.

Database Documentation

For collaboration or database migration, you might want to document its structure. Customized scripts targeting INFORMATION_SCHEMA views can provide the exact level of detail required for your documentation.

Performance Optimization

In high-load situations, efficiency is paramount. T-SQL scripts execute efficiently and are non-blocking, ensuring smooth sailing in performance-heavy environments where GUI actions might risk blocking operations.

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