How to Learn MySQL: A Beginner’s Guide

Imagine being able to store and organize data online in the same way as a library. Well, it is possible and all you have to do is learn MySQL. Creating a database has become increasingly important due to our growing reliance on digital space.

An online database is important because it ensures that your data is well-stored and protected. Big tech giants like Microsoft and Oracle use databases to build online management systems to maximize digital space.

Learning MySQL can be a useful skill to have for many tech fields. If you want to know more about MySQL and how to make it work, you have come to the right place. This guide will cover all the necessary information you will need to learn MySQL.

What Is MySQL?

MySQL is universally defined as an open-source relational database management system (RDBMS). It follows a client-server model whereby the server acts as the “middleman”. Once a client sends a request to another program, the server makes the service available.

The middleman in this case is MySQL because it is the database that handles all of the information. Some popular sites that currently use MySQL are Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and WordPress. All of these websites have one thing in common: they store information.

MySQL was originally developed by the Swedish company MySQL AB back in 1994. But since 2010, MySQL has been under the supervision and development of Oracle.

Difference Between MySQL and SQL

It is important to understand that MySQL and SQL are two different things. SQL is a programming language used by RDBMS. Alternatively, MySQL uses SQL to help databases interact.

What Is MySQL Used For?

MySQL is useful for any website or platform that stores large amounts of information, or data. Below we cover some of the many benefits of using MySQL. 

MySQL Is Used for Managing Memory

The MySQL database software organizes data effectively to ensure efficient memory management. Data is automatically classified and stored securely. 

MySQL Is Used for Securing Data

Protecting data is a must especially for websites storing personal information. MySQL ensures that data and information are secured to prevent unwanted access. For example, MySQL encrypts passwords to prevent hackers from stealing accounts.

MySQL Is Used for Maintaining Websites

Some of today’s most popular websites, including social media sites and microblogging sites, would not be as powerful if it wasn’t for MySQL. Websites rely on the capability of MySQL to efficiently store data and provide that data when needed. 

Learn MySQL: Step-by-Step

You can download MySQL for free with all versions of the database available for all operating systems.

How fast you learn MySQL will depend on how focused you are with your studies. If you have a bit of programming and coding background, then it should be easier to keep up with online classes. 

Keep in mind that you will also need to learn SQL with MySQL because it is the programming language used for MySQL. Therefore, most courses will be a combination of learning the two.

Below are the steps you should follow if you want to learn MySQL.

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Earning a computer science bachelor’s degree will give you an advantage when learning MySQL. Computer science is an essential discipline when it comes to learning data science and web development. These two disciplines make up most of today’s web applications and site-building.

With a college education, you can acquire useful skills and knowledge to keep up with today’s tech trends. You will have a head-start when it comes to learning the complexities of MySQL and SQL.

2. Take Advantage of Free MySQL Tutorials

Take advantage of free MySQL tutorials whenever they are available. Some organizations and websites provide training as a way to encourage more people to delve into MySQL. These free tutorials are readily available online so all you need is time.

The tutorials cover the fundamentals of MySQL and provide some specific samples. Since you also need to learn SQL while learning MySQL, you should subscribe to as many resources available.

3. Take MySQL Online Courses

One of the benefits of taking paid MySQL online courses is that they are more specialized and comprehensive. You can expect an instructor to look out for you and guide you through any projects. There are even one-on-one consultations available with some courses.

With paid online courses you will receive a certification once the course is completed. Some courses provide certification once classes have finished, while others might require you to take an exam.

4. Work on MySQL Projects

MySQL requires a practical application to demonstrate how much you have learned. Like any class, you will start with the theory first. However, the true test will be when you can finally make use of your skills in the real world.

Working on personal MySQL projects will help to hone your skills. You can directly apply what you have learned with hands-on projects at your own pace. More importantly, you will learn how to navigate the database software.

5. Apply for Internships

Applying for internships where you can directly work on MySQL projects will be extremely beneficial. You will be able to learn from experienced programmers and coders. And while you learn more about MySQL, you will also gain experience navigating a corporate setting.

It’s not just websites and applications though, some companies use MySQL for data analytics and business intelligence. If you are a business student, you could consider venturing into programming as an additional skill. Seek internships that directly deal with data science if this is the case.

The Best MySQL Courses

Learning MySQL is a must if you want to navigate the fields of computer science and become a data scientist.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports computer and information research scientists can earn an average of $122,840 a year. With computer programmers earning as much as $86,550 per year. Both prospects are encouraging.

Below is a list of top-quality MySQL courses you can take to get you on your way to a new tech career with a great salary. 

The Ultimate MySQL Bootcamp: Go from SQL Beginner to Expert

This course from Udemy will teach you how to create your own database. The ultimate goal of this course is for you to be able to build a web application using MySQL. As a bonus, you will also learn how to answer hypothetical questions about a company’s performance and sales data.

MySQL

Pluralsight offers this course to beginners who want to learn the basics of MySQL. You will learn how to handle the MySQL database server and how to maintain its high performance. Additionally, you will learn how to backup and recover MySQL managed databases.

Introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL)

As mentioned, you need to learn and be familiar with SQL because it is the programming language used in MySQL. This course will teach you the basic syntax and commands of the SQL language. It will also delve into designing multiple tables and installing text editors, as well as other MySQL fundamentals.

MySQL Training by Oracle

Oracle owns MySQL so they should be considered the experts on the topic. They offer three training options, including a MySQL learning subscription, MySQL virtual classes, and MySQL training on demand. A certificate will be provided at the end of your training.

Managing Big Data with MySQL

This Coursera course teaches students how to utilize MySQL for business analysis. You will learn how to use data in a business context and how to provide analysis using MySQL results. At the end of the course, you will have learned how to become a business analyst.

Is Learning MySQL Right For You?

MySQL might initially have the impression of being complex. However, as with other things, the more you learn about something the easier it becomes to work with. You won’t just learn about the database server, but also the SQL programming language.

Learning MySQL opens up many new opportunities, especially if you are looking to venture into business analytics. Data science has become ingrained in our daily lives and MySQL is one of the many manifestations of its power and contribution to the world.

By learning MySQL, you are discovering one of the most powerful tools in online information management. You will learn how to safely keep important memories and mementoes that are stored online.