SQL Variable

What are SQL variables, and how are they used?

SQL variables are temporary named storage locations used within a specific SQL session. They hold values that can be used in queries or stored procedures. They are not persistent and are lost when the session ends. They are crucial for dynamic queries and parameterized statements.

Welcome to the Galaxy, Guardian!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Description

Example H2

Example H3

SQL variables, also known as user-defined variables, are placeholders that store data during a SQL session. They are not part of the database structure itself; their existence is limited to the current session. Think of them as temporary containers for values that you can use in your queries. They are particularly useful for creating dynamic queries where you want to change parts of the query based on input data. For example, you might use a variable to hold a user's input for a search term. Variables are also important for parameterized queries, which improve security by preventing SQL injection vulnerabilities. They allow you to separate the query structure from the data values, making your code more readable and maintainable. Variables can be declared and assigned values within a specific SQL statement or block of code. They are often used in conjunction with stored procedures and dynamic SQL statements.

Why SQL Variable is important

SQL variables are essential for building dynamic and reusable SQL code. They enhance security by preventing SQL injection attacks and improve code readability and maintainability. They are crucial for creating stored procedures and parameterized queries, which are fundamental for efficient and secure database interactions.

SQL Variable Example Usage


CREATE TABLE Orders_East (
    OrderID INT,
    CustomerName VARCHAR(50)
);

CREATE TABLE Orders_West (
    OrderID INT,
    CustomerName VARCHAR(50)
);

INSERT INTO Orders_East (OrderID, CustomerName) VALUES
(1, 'Alice'),
(2, 'Bob'),
(3, 'Charlie');

INSERT INTO Orders_West (OrderID, CustomerName) VALUES
(4, 'David'),
(2, 'Bob'),
(5, 'Eve');

SELECT OrderID, CustomerName FROM Orders_East
UNION ALL
SELECT OrderID, CustomerName FROM Orders_West;

SQL Variable Syntax

Common Mistakes

Forgetting to declare a variable before using it.
Using the wrong data type for a variable.
Trying to use a variable outside the scope where it was declared.
Incorrectly assigning values to variables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are SQL user-defined variables and how long do they persist?

SQL user-defined variables are temporary placeholders that you create inside a session to store values such as counters, flags, or user input. They live only for the duration of your current database session and disappear automatically once you disconnect, so they never become part of the permanent database schema.

Why are variables essential for parameterized queries and security?

By separating the query structure from the data values, variables let you build parameterized statements that the database engine can parse once and execute safely multiple times. This eliminates the need to concatenate raw user input into SQL strings and greatly reduces the risk of SQL injection attacks while keeping your code easier to read and maintain.

How can Galaxy help me work with SQL variables and dynamic queries more efficiently?

Galaxy’s modern SQL editor offers context-aware auto-complete, AI copilot suggestions, and reusable query templates—all of which make declaring, assigning, and reusing SQL variables faster. Its collaboration features let teams endorse trusted parameterized queries in shared Collections, so everyone can adopt secure, variable-driven patterns without copying snippets around Slack or Notion.