SQL For Loop

How do you perform iterative operations in SQL?

SQL doesn't have explicit 'for' or 'while' loops like programming languages. Instead, it uses `cursors` and `WHILE` statements to achieve looping behavior. These methods are less common than other SQL operations, but can be useful in specific scenarios.

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Description

Example H2

Example H3

SQL, unlike procedural languages like Python or Java, doesn't have built-in looping constructs like `for` or `while` loops. This is because SQL is primarily designed for set-based operations, where you work with entire datasets at once. However, there are ways to achieve iterative behavior. One common approach is using cursors, which allow you to process rows from a result set one at a time. Another method involves using `WHILE` statements in conjunction with conditions and updates. These methods are often less efficient than set-based operations and are typically used in specific situations where set-based solutions aren't feasible.

Why SQL For Loop is important

While not a primary feature, understanding cursors and `WHILE` loops is important for handling specific tasks that require processing data row by row, such as complex data transformations or updates based on intricate conditions.

SQL For Loop Example Usage


-- Create a sample table with a constraint
CREATE TABLE Customers (
    CustomerID INT PRIMARY KEY,
    FirstName VARCHAR(50),
    City VARCHAR(50),
    CONSTRAINT CK_City CHECK (City IN ('New York', 'Los Angeles', 'Chicago'))
);

-- Insert some data
INSERT INTO Customers (CustomerID, FirstName, City)
VALUES
(1, 'John', 'New York'),
(2, 'Jane', 'Los Angeles');

-- Check the constraint
SELECT * FROM Customers;

-- Drop the constraint
ALTER TABLE Customers DROP CONSTRAINT CK_City;

-- Insert data violating the removed constraint (now possible)
INSERT INTO Customers (CustomerID, FirstName, City)
VALUES
(3, 'Mike', 'Houston');

-- Verify the change
SELECT * FROM Customers;

SQL For Loop Syntax

Common Mistakes

Forgetting to `CLOSE` and `DEALLOCATE` cursors, leading to resource leaks.
Using cursors when a set-based solution is more efficient and readable.
Incorrectly using `WHILE` loops, leading to infinite loops or unexpected results.
Not understanding the performance implications of using cursors, which can be significantly slower than set-based operations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why doesn’t standard SQL include traditional FOR or WHILE loops?

SQL was created for declarative, set-based data manipulation, meaning you express what result you want over an entire table rather than describe step-by-step iteration. Because the query planner can operate on sets, it can optimize I/O, parallelize work, and use indexes efficiently. Procedural loops would break that model, so most SQL dialects omit native loop keywords and push users toward set operations such as JOINs, aggregations, and window functions.

When should I resort to cursors or a WHILE loop in SQL?

Loops become necessary only in edge cases where each row must be handled sequentially—e.g., calling a stored procedure per row, performing complicated conditional logic, or interfacing with external systems. In these scenarios you can open a cursor to fetch one row at a time or use a WHILE loop that updates a control variable. Be aware these approaches are usually slower and harder to maintain than a single set-based statement.

How does Galaxy help me avoid procedural loops and write faster set-based SQL?

Galaxy’s context-aware AI copilot suggests set-based rewrites, highlights anti-patterns like unnecessary cursors, and autocompletes JOIN or window-function syntax. By catching inefficiencies early and surfacing trusted, endorsed queries from your team, Galaxy lets you achieve the same business logic without resorting to WHILE loops—keeping your queries concise, performant, and easy to collaborate on.