How to move columns in a MySQL table?

Going behind the syntax

Unleashing ALTER TABLE nuances

If column renaming is on your to-do list, CHANGE COLUMN is your go-to command. The syntax seems to have column name repetition — but that's no accident, it provides clear readability of your SQL statement:

-- Hulk Smash! Rename and reorder in the same line! 
ALTER TABLE your_table
CHANGE COLUMN columnA columnA datatype AFTER columnB;


Dynamic rearrangement: SQL gets smart

If unrehearsed column rearranging tickles your fancy, where the column shuffle depends on the whims of your application logic, MySQL’s information_schema is your best friend. You can program ALTER TABLE command with CONCAT for that extra edge of automation. More power to scripting!

Drag and drop columns: GUI to the rescue

If you're more comfortable with visual interfaces, GUI-based tools like phpMyAdmin and TablePlus offer the convenience of moving columns around just like organizing tiles on your smartphone home screen. Please check that you have phpMyAdmin v4.1.7 or later for a seamless experience.

Delving Deeper: Elaborate Scenarios and Clever Tricks

Keeping constraints and defaults in check

Beware of columns flanked by constraints or bearing default values. Always repeat these attributes while executing your ALTER TABLE command. After all, a little extra typing is worth preventing potential data inconsistencies.

Establishing position: FIRST or LAST?

Want your column up front? Use FIRST:

-- ⚠️ "VIP Coming Through!" Make way for your column
ALTER TABLE your_table MODIFY COLUMN columnA datatype FIRST;


Favor having your column at the tail end? Say no more:

-- 🍃 "Gone with the Wind!" Move your column to the end
ALTER TABLE your_table MODIFY COLUMN columnA datatype;


In the latter command, a mere semicolon isn't only closing the statement, but effectively sending the column to the back of the line.

Potential pitfalls to guard against

Shuffling columns is a fun exercise, until it wreaks havoc in your applications dependent on column order. Always review dependent scripts before rearranging columns. Large tables might also witness stretched lock times, possibly impacting your applications' performance. Trade carefully!