Pretty SQL

How can I make my SQL queries more readable and maintainable?

Pretty SQL, or formatting SQL queries, is crucial for readability and maintainability. Proper formatting enhances understanding and reduces errors. Consistent formatting styles improve collaboration and code review. We've built a SQL prettifier that you can use here: https://www.getgalaxy.io/free-tools/sql-formatter

Welcome to the Galaxy, Guardian!
You'll be receiving a confirmation email

Follow us on twitter :)

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Description

Example H2

Example H3

Formatting SQL queries, often referred to as "pretty SQL," is a critical aspect of writing efficient and maintainable database code. While SQL syntax itself doesn't depend on formatting, a well-structured query is much easier to understand, debug, and modify. This is especially true in larger projects with multiple developers. Consistent formatting styles, like using indentation, proper spacing, and naming conventions, create a standardized approach. This makes the codebase more readable and reduces the chance of introducing errors during maintenance or updates. Furthermore, well-formatted queries are easier to review and understand, leading to better collaboration among team members. This ultimately improves the overall quality of the database application. We recently launched our own Galaxy SQL Formatter which supports dozens of SQL variations here.

Why Pretty SQL is important

Pretty SQL is essential for maintaining code quality, improving collaboration, and reducing errors. Well-formatted queries are easier to understand and debug, leading to more efficient development and maintenance. Consistent formatting styles also make code reviews more effective. Use Galaxy's SQL formatter here: https://www.getgalaxy.io/free-tools/sql-formatter

Pretty SQL Example Usage


-- Unformatted query
SELECT
CustomerID,
FirstName,
LastName
FROM
Customers
WHERE
Country='USA';

-- Formatted query
SELECT
    CustomerID,
    FirstName,
    LastName
FROM
    Customers
WHERE
    Country = 'USA';

Pretty SQL Syntax

Common Mistakes

Using inconsistent formatting styles across different parts of the codebase.
Ignoring indentation and spacing, making the query hard to read.
Not using meaningful aliases for tables and columns, leading to confusion.
Over-formatting, making the query unnecessarily complex to read.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is consistent SQL formatting (also called “pretty SQL”) so critical in large codebases?

Consistent indentation, spacing, and naming conventions turn a tangled query into readable “pretty SQL.” In a sizeable project with multiple developers, this uniform style reduces cognitive load, speeds up code reviews, and minimizes the risk of bugs introduced during future tweaks. Well-formatted queries are also simpler for performance tuning because the logical blocks—SELECT, JOIN, WHERE, GROUP BY—are visually distinct.

What are the most effective practices for writing readable, maintainable SQL?

Start with clear indentation levels for sub-queries, place each column on its own line in a SELECT, use uppercase for SQL keywords, and adopt descriptive aliases (e.g., order_total instead of ot). Combining these habits with version control hooks or editor plug-ins that auto-format code ensures every team member ships consistent, error-free SQL.

How does Galaxy help teams keep “pretty SQL” consistent and collaborative?

Galaxy’s modern SQL editor auto-formats queries, suggests context-aware completions, and lets teams “endorse” vetted snippets inside shared Collections—eliminating the chaos of pasting SQL into Slack or Notion. With AI Copilot generating or refactoring code to match your style guide, everyone edits the same, well-formatted query, boosting collaboration and reducing maintenance headaches.

Moreover, we also offer our own SQL formatter that is an even better version of Poor T-SQL that you can find here!