SQL vs PL SQL: Difference Between SQL & PL/SQL

Every organization relies on data to run smoothly. With over 2.5 quintillion bytes of data generated daily, businesses rely on relational databases to store, manage, and process information effectively. SQL and PL/SQL are two important tools for working with these databases. Although they are closely related, they serve different purposes. 

While SQL is great for simple operations, PL/SQL is designed for automation and efficiency in larger, more intricate processes.

Why Does It Matter?

• Companies managing vast amounts of data (e.g., 90% of the world’s data was created in the last two years) need both tools to optimize database workflows.
• IT professionals working with databases need to understand how SQL and PL/SQL complement each other to perform effectively.

Let’s explore SQL vs PL SQL features, discuss their uses, and explain why both are needed for handling data effectively. 

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What is SQL?

SQL (Structured Query Language) is a standard programming language used to interact with and manage relational databases. It was developed by IBM researchers in the 1970s to simplify the process of accessing and managing data stored in databases. Over time, SQL has become a widely adopted language for working with relational database management systems (RDBMS).

Main Uses of SQL

• Querying data from databases using commands like SELECT.
• Updating or deleting existing data with commands like UPDATE and DELETE.
• Inserting new records into tables using the INSERT command.
• Managing database schemas with commands like CREATE TABLE and ALTER TABLE.

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What is PL/SQL?

PL/SQL (Procedural Language/SQL) is an extension of SQL developed by Oracle to introduce procedural programming capabilities to relational databases. It combines the data manipulation power of SQL with procedural features like loops, conditions, and error handling. PL/SQL is specifically designed to work with Oracle databases, enabling users to perform complex operations efficiently.

Main Components of PL/SQL

• Functions and Procedures: Reusable code blocks for specific tasks, improving modularity and efficiency.
• Triggers: Automated actions that respond to database events like inserts, updates, or deletions.
• Packages: Collections of related procedures, functions, and variables to simplify database application development.

Main Use Cases of PL/SQL

• Writing stored procedures for reusable database logic.
• Creating functions for specific tasks like calculations or data validation.
• Managing triggers to automate actions in response to database events.
• Enabling batch processing to execute multiple SQL statements as a single block.

SQL vs PL SQL: Difference Between SQL and PL/SQL

The table below outlines the key technical differences between SQL vs PL SQL, explaining their roles and functionalities in database management:

Application of SQL and PL/SQL in Real-World Scenarios

SQL and PL/SQL are integral tools in database management, each with specific applications. Below are examples of how these are used in practical scenarios, helping to understand the difference between SQL and PL/SQL with example.

Applications of SQL

SQL is used for direct interactions with databases, particularly for querying, managing, and manipulating data.

• Data Analysis and Reporting:
  • SQL is widely used to generate business reports and perform data analyses.
  • Example: Extracting monthly sales data for a specific product.
• Database Management:
  • SQL helps manage relational database structures, including creating, altering, and deleting tables or records.
  • Example: Adding a new column to track employee emails.
• Data Manipulation in Applications:
  • SQL supports applications that require frequent updates or modifications to database records.
  • Example: Marking orders as shipped in an e-commerce database.

Applications of PL/SQL

PL/SQL is designed for application-specific tasks, automating workflows, and implementing backend logic in Oracle databases.

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems:
  • PL/SQL is used for complex operations like payroll calculations or inventory updates.
  • Example: Updating bonuses for sales employees.;
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM):
  • PL/SQL automates CRM processes like logging customer interactions or sending alerts.
  • Example: Automatically logging customer contact updates.
• Backend Logic for Web Applications:
  • PL/SQL handles backend operations like validating user data or executing business logic.
  • Example: Validating login credentials.
• Automating Database Tasks:
  • PL/SQL helps automate tasks such as archiving old records or updating data periodically.
  • Example: Archiving records older than one year.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding SQL vs PL/SQL is essential for efficient database management. While SQL is used for querying and manipulating data, PL/SQL allows for procedural programming, enabling advanced operations like loops, conditions, and error handling. 
Choosing between the two depends on the specific requirements—SQL for direct data operations and PL/SQL for complex business logic and automation within the database.

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