Postgresql column 'foo' does not exist

sql

error-handling

postgresql

database-management

byNikita Barsukov·Jan 9, 2025

Often, a column 'foo' does not exist error is due to case sensitivity in PostgreSQL. Columns are lowercase unless quoted. Using "Foo" instead of foo for mixed-case identifiers solves this:

-- Use double quotes for exact recipe!
SELECT "Foo" FROM your_table;
-- P.S Bear me no 'foo', I need Foo!

Ensure to follow these practices:

Stick to lowercase and unquoted column names in PostgreSQL.
Use single quotes for string literals in your queries.
Trailing spaces in column names - they're a no-no!
Verifying column existence is a cinch: SELECT * FROM information_schema.columns WHERE table_name = your_table;

Remember, phpPGAdmin isn't an eccentric artist – it needs identifiers to not be automatically quoted and free of stray trailing spaces.

Error diagnostics: The deep dive

Hidden non-printable or special characters within column names could be playing hide-and-seek with you. Here's what you can do:

Decode your error: The error message isn't gibberish - specific line or character details could be Sherlock's magnifying glass for you.
Code cleanliness: Check for unusual or non-printable characters - They're good at hide-and-seek!
Syntax sanity: PostgreSQL 8.3 had a different set of rules for text columns! Choose your syntax carefully.

If you're still on a rollercoaster ride with these errors, it's probably time to upgrade PostgreSQL.