How Long Does It Take To Learn SQL To Get A Job?

SQL, or Structured Query Language, is a powerful programming language used by database administrators to manage and query data. It is one of the most in-demand skills in the tech industry, and many employers are looking for candidates who have experience with SQL. If you're interested in learning this skill, you may be wondering how long it will take you to become proficient.

On average, it takes about 2 to 3 weeks to learn the basics and start working with SQL databases, and 1.5 to 2 months to master SQL. However, this period varies from person to person, based on several factors.

Below we will provide an overview of the SQL learning process and give you an idea of how long it will take you to become proficient. Keep reading to learn more.

How Long Does It Take To Learn SQL?

SQL is becoming quite popular in the business world. And, for good reason - it's a powerful language that can help you do everything from querying data to managing databases.

If you're interested in learning this skill, you may be wondering how long it will take you to become proficient. On average, it takes a few weeks to learn the basics and start working with SQL databases. However, if you want to master this programming language, it may take up to 2 months. (Source: Thinkful)

Nonetheless, this period is just an estimate. Several factors may influence how long it takes you to learn SQL, such as:

Your Current Skillset and Goals for Learning SQL

One of the factors that will determine how long it takes you to learn SQL is your current skill set. If you're starting from scratch, it's going to take longer than if you have some familiarity with basic programming concepts. Below is a breakdown of what you should expect based on your skillset and goals.

No Programming Experience, Interested in Basic SQL

If you're not in a technical field and simply want to learn the basics of SQL for personal use, you can expect to complete a beginner SQL basics course in a few hours or days. The basics are often simple to wrap your head around, especially if you have a background in programming. However, it may take a few practice sessions to get the hang of things and feel comfortable using SQL in your everyday life if you have no experience whatsoever.

No Programming Experience, Interested in Intermediate SQL

If you don't have any prior coding experience but you'd like to learn SQL and use it regularly in more complicated tasks, an intermediate SQL course is better suited for you. This course may take you a few weeks to master, assuming you have a full-time job and only get to practice and learn in your free time.

No Programming Experience, Interested in Advanced SQL

If you have no prior coding experience but want to venture into a field that heavily relies on SQL, you should take an advanced SQL course. This may be a more difficult task for you, but you could achieve this goal in a few months with enough practice and dedication.

Programming Experience, Interested in Basic SQL

If you have coding experience and want to start using SQL for data management purposes, you can probably learn the basics of the language in about two to three hours.

Programming Experience, Interested in Intermediate SQL

If you have some programming experience under your belt and want to learn how to use SQL regularly in tasks such as data analysis, you may need only a few weeks to master intermediate courses, depending on how deep you want to go.

Programming Experience, Interested in Advanced SQL

If you have coding experience and want to learn SQL for more complex data management tasks such as database design, you may need a few months of dedicated study. (Source: Data Quest)

Your Preferred Learning Style

Another factor influencing how long it takes to learn SQL is how you prefer to learn. For instance, choosing self-teaching will probably take you longer than attending live classes or working with a mentor.

You see, with self-taught learning, you need to be very organized and have a clear plan of attack. This includes knowing where to find good resources (including video tutorials, blogs, books, etc.), how to practice the material effectively, and what challenges you will face along the way.

On the other hand, attending live classes or working with a mentor can help shorten your learning period since the instructor can help guide you and answer any questions. Additionally, having someone to practice with will allow you to get feedback and improve your skills.

What You're Focusing In

Theory is a crucial part of learning any new skill, but eventually, you need to apply that knowledge in a real-world setting. When it comes to SQL, this means trying different commands on different databases to see how they work.

If your learning process is more focused on the theoretical aspects of the language, you're more likely to take longer to become proficient. On the other hand, if you're more focused on applying your learning in a real-world setting, you'll likely learn SQL faster.

Therefore, find a balance between theory and practice that works for you to continue learning at a fast pace. This is especially crucial if you're teaching yourself, since no one will be around to direct you on how to go about it. However, if you have an instructor, they will probably have a good balance in place when teaching you.

(Source: Learn SQL)

Wrapping Up

If you're interested in learning SQL to land your dream job, it's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how long it takes. However, you can learn SQL quickly and effectively by focusing on your own learning process, choosing the best learning method, and finding a balance between theory and practice. So get started today, and you'll be on your way to success!