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== What is SQL? ==
As discussed previously, a ''database management system'' (DBMS) provides the means to access the data stored in a database. One of the key methods for achieving this is via a language called the Structured Query Language. This is usually abbreviated to SQL and pronounced ''Sequel''.
SQL is essentially a very simple and easy to use language designed specifically to enable the reading and writing of database data. Because SQL contains a small set of keywords it can be learned quickly. In addition, SQL syntax is more or less identical between most DBMS implementations, so having learned SQL for one system, it is likely that your skills will transfer to other database management systems.
Throughout the remainder of this book particular attention will be paid to explaining the key SQL commands so that the reader will be proficient in using SQL to read and write database data.