Incorrect syntax near ''

Unprintable characters: lurking in the shadows

Identifying hidden uninvited guests

Characters that don’t print (like CR, LF or non-breaking spaces) often crash the SQL syntax party. Notepad++ is a bouncer who can spot and kick them out:

• Open the SQL query in Notepad++.
• Enable Show All Characters (View > Show Symbol > Show All Characters).
• Examine for unexpected gate crashers like CR, LF, or · (non-breaking space).

Correct encoding: the party rule book

Incorrect character encoding often leads to syntax hangovers. Avoid this by saving SQL files in UTF-8 format. Notepad++ and Visual Studio Code have 'Save with Encoding' options to help you set the right party rules.

Structuring and spacing: party etiquette

Parties need space and structure. Your SQL query is no different. Give proper spacing between SQL elements and ensure they follow the correct sequence to avoid syntax faux pas.

Non-Windows encoding: overseas party norms

If your party guests are from non-Windows systems, verify and adjust to their encoding party norms.

Deep dive into unprintable character mystery

Notepad++: the detective

In the face of a stubborn syntax error, Notepad++ can help:

• Open the suspect SQL query in Notepad++.
• Reveal hidden characters, as described above.
• Remove any suspicious characters.
• Ensure Notepad++ is set to UTF-8 encoding, helping to tackle character problems.
• Save the cleaned-up code, pick UTF-8 without BOM if available.

Visual Studio Code: another detective

In Visual Studio Code:

• Use the 'Save with Encoding' feature to switch to UTF-8.
• Stumbled upon a syntax error after a Spartan copy-paste? Encoding conversion can be a clever workaround.

Structure view: aerial survey

A structured approach eases debugging. Verify SQL clauses (select, from, where, etc.) are properly spaced and sequenced to streamline the process.

SQL etiquette: special scenarios and fixes

Special characters in strings: beware of the 'trap'

When special characters play hide and seek in strings, catch them:

Wrong:

-- ' in O'Brien is a SQL ninja. Spot it and handle it with care.
SELECT * FROM users WHERE name = 'O'Brien';


Correct:

-- ' in O'Brien is tamed with an escape gesture.
SELECT * FROM users WHERE name = 'O''Brien';  


Keywords and reserved words: respect the VIPs

Yoohoo! Reserved keywords as identifiers? Use quotes, always!

Wrong:

-- 'from' in a cap? That's a misfit! Scouts hat should be on Scout!
SELECT from FROM table;   


Correct:

-- That's more like it! 'from' securely inside quotes.
SELECT "from" FROM table;
-- or
SELECT [from] FROM table;  


Function and stored procedure calls: RSVP correctly

Calling functions and stored procedures? The syntax is your invite:

Wrong:

-- Oops! missing dial code. That call won't go through!
EXECUTE myProcedure 'argument1', 'argument2';  


Correct:

-- That's the correct dial code! It will ring now!
EXECUTE myProcedure 'argument1', 'argument2';  
