SQL Insert Into

How do you add new data to a table in SQL?

The `INSERT INTO` statement is fundamental in SQL for adding new rows of data to a table. It's a crucial part of data management, allowing you to populate your database with information. This statement specifies the table and the values to be inserted.

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Description

Example H2

Example H3

The `INSERT INTO` statement is used to add new rows to a table in a relational database. It's a core part of data manipulation, enabling you to populate your database with the necessary information. This statement is essential for creating and maintaining the data within your tables. Understanding how to use `INSERT INTO` correctly is vital for any SQL developer. It's a straightforward yet powerful tool for adding data, enabling you to update and maintain your database effectively. The statement takes the table name as input and allows you to specify the values to be inserted into the columns of that table.

Why SQL Insert Into is important

The `INSERT INTO` statement is crucial for populating databases with data. Without it, you wouldn't be able to add new records, making the database useless. It's a fundamental building block for any data-driven application.

SQL Insert Into Example Usage


-- SQL Server example
CREATE TABLE Customers (
    CustomerID INT PRIMARY KEY,
    FirstName VARCHAR(50),
    LastName VARCHAR(50)
);
GO
INSERT INTO Customers (CustomerID, FirstName, LastName)
VALUES (1, 'John', 'Doe');
GO
INSERT INTO Customers (CustomerID, FirstName, LastName)
VALUES (2, 'Jane', 'Smith');
GO
SELECT * FROM Customers;

SQL Insert Into Syntax

Common Mistakes

Forgetting to specify the column names when inserting values (especially when not inserting into all columns).
Incorrect data types for the values being inserted (e.g., inserting a string where an integer is expected).
Using incorrect syntax for the `VALUES` clause.
Trying to insert values into columns that have constraints (e.g., `NOT NULL` columns without providing a value).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I insert multiple rows with a single SQL `INSERT INTO` statement?

Yes. After the VALUES keyword you can place several comma-separated value tuples, each enclosed in parentheses. For example:
INSERT INTO users (id, name) VALUES (1,'Ada'), (2,'Grace'), (3,'Lin');
This approach is faster than running separate statements because the database engine performs just one write operation.

What precautions should I take if I don’t list every column in an `INSERT INTO`?

Always name the columns you are populating—e.g., INSERT INTO orders (order_id, total). If you omit a NOT NULL column that lacks a default value, the database will throw an error. Explicitly specifying columns also protects your code from breaking when the table schema changes (new columns, altered order, etc.).

How does Galaxy’s AI copilot accelerate writing correct `INSERT INTO` statements?

Galaxy’s context-aware AI autocompletes column lists, flags missing NOT NULL fields, and auto-parameterizes values so you can switch between dev and prod seamlessly. It also suggests best practices—like batching multiple rows—helping SQL developers insert data faster and with fewer errors.