Select data from "show tables" MySQL query

sql

information-schema

mysql-queries

database-management

byNikita Barsukov·Oct 4, 2024

To fetch details from SHOW TABLES, query the INFORMATION_SCHEMA:

SELECT TABLE_NAME 
FROM INFORMATION_SCHEMA.TABLES 
WHERE TABLE_SCHEMA = 'your_database_name';

This SQL statement pulls all table names within the specified database, empowering you to sieve and manipulate the results using classic SQL syntax.

It's learn SQL today with INFORMATION_SCHEMA, a meta-database providing insights into the structure of other databases managed by the server. It ensures compatibility with versions of MySQL, especially MySQL 5.0.51a onwards.

Why "show tables" can be misleading

The complication with "SHOW TABLES"

If you try SELECT * FROM (SHOW TABLES), you'll find it doesn't execute. Unfortunately, SHOW TABLES isn’t a standard SQL query and can't inhabit a subquery. It's a MySQL-specific command yielding results directly to the client without adhering to SQL's query structure.

The edge of INFORMATION_SCHEMA

In contrast, INFORMATION_SCHEMA.TABLES offers far-reaching flexibility in your SQL queries. It accommodates complex operations like JOINs, WHERE clauses, and aggregation functions, which SHOW TABLES isn't tailored to handle.

Essential tips on using INFORMATION_SCHEMA

Verify MySQL Server version

Simple rule: compatibility check first. With MySQL 5.0.51a and newer, accessing INFORMATION_SCHEMA is the way to go. Verify your version with:

SELECT VERSION(); -- just your server asking, "Who am I?"

Getting comfy with MySQL documentation

Peruse MySQL's official document on INFORMATION_SCHEMA. It's a crucial guide to understanding table and schema metadata storage - your ultimate resource to master table management.

Expert tricks and possible hiccups

Segregating Table Types

With INFORMATION_SCHEMA, you can distinguish between base tables and views by specifying the table type:

SELECT TABLE_NAME
FROM INFORMATION_SCHEMA.TABLES
WHERE TABLE_SCHEMA = 'your_database_name' AND TABLE_TYPE = 'BASE TABLE';

Dealing with Massive Databases

Beware when querying INFORMATION_SCHEMA with a mammoth number of databases or tables. Such queries could be overhead-intensive. Consider using limiting clauses or results caching - a lifeline in the sea of information.

Clearing the Permissions Hurdle

Keep in mind, rights matter. You’ll require suitable privileges to query INFORMATION_SCHEMA. Otherwise, you're kicked out with access denied alerts.

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