Introduction

We now turn our attention to the concept of data retrieval and modification. This is a very diverse topic. We will begin with the fundamentals of SQL coding, the SELECT statement, and progress through to one of the most recently added features, extracting data through the use of XML. Also, because the same coding mechanisms are used for updating data as are used in retrieval, we will conclude our discussion and the chapter itself with the coding mechanisms of the UPDATE, INSERT, and DELETE statements.