SQL Convert Int To String

How do you convert an integer column to a string in SQL?

Converting integer data types to string data types in SQL is a common task. Different SQL dialects offer various methods for this conversion. Understanding these methods is crucial for data manipulation and presentation.

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Description

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Converting integer values to strings in SQL is essential for tasks like displaying data in reports, concatenating values with other strings, or preparing data for specific applications. The exact method for conversion varies slightly across different SQL database systems (like MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, Oracle). Generally, you use functions provided by the database system to perform this conversion. This process is straightforward and crucial for data manipulation and presentation. For example, you might need to combine an integer representing a product ID with a string describing the product category. This conversion allows you to create a unified string representation for display or further processing.

Why SQL Convert Int To String is important

Converting integers to strings is vital for formatting data for display, creating composite strings, and integrating with other applications. It's a fundamental skill for any SQL developer working with data.

SQL Convert Int To String Example Usage


-- Example using MySQL
SELECT CAST(123.456 AS DECIMAL(10, 2));
-- Output: 123.46

SELECT CAST('123' AS DECIMAL(5,2));
-- Output: 123.00

-- Example using PostgreSQL
SELECT CAST(123.456 AS DECIMAL(5, 2));
-- Output: 123.46

SELECT CAST('123' AS DECIMAL(5,2));
-- Output: 123.00

-- Example using SQL Server
SELECT CAST(123.456 AS DECIMAL(10, 2));
-- Output: 123.46

SELECT CAST('123' AS DECIMAL(5,2));
-- Output: 123.00

SQL Convert Int To String Syntax

Common Mistakes

Forgetting to specify the target data type (e.g., VARCHAR, TEXT, or CHAR) when converting. This can lead to errors or unexpected results.
Using incorrect functions for the specific SQL dialect. For instance, using `CAST` in SQL Server where `CONVERT` is the appropriate function.
Not considering the length of the resulting string. Using an insufficiently sized string type can lead to truncation of data.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What built-in SQL functions convert an INT to a VARCHAR or TEXT in major databases?

Most systems expose a dedicated casting function: use CAST(integer_column AS CHAR) or CONVERT(integer_column, CHAR) in MySQL, CAST(integer_column AS TEXT) in PostgreSQL, CONVERT(varchar, integer_column) in SQL Server, and TO_CHAR(integer_column) in Oracle. These functions safely transform the numeric value into a string so it can be concatenated or displayed in UIs and reports.

Why should I convert integers to strings before concatenating values in a report?

SQL treats numbers and text differently. When you join an INT directly with a literal string—such as building a label like “Product 42 – Electronics”—the database must first turn the INT into a string. Doing the conversion yourself with CAST or TO_CHAR avoids implicit casting errors, preserves formatting, and gives you full control over the final output.

How does Galaxy help me write and troubleshoot INT-to-string conversions faster?

Galaxy’s context-aware AI copilot can suggest the exact CAST, CONVERT, or TO_CHAR syntax for your target database as you type. The editor also previews the resulting string in the result grid, letting you verify the conversion instantly. This eliminates back-and-forth testing and ensures your queries are portable across MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, and Oracle.