What SQL dialects does this tool support?

The SQL Helper supports all major SQL dialects: MySQL (5.7+, 8.0), PostgreSQL (12+), SQL Server (T-SQL), SQLite 3, and Oracle Database. While SQL syntax is largely similar across dialects, selecting the correct one ensures optimal formatting for dialect-specific features.

How does the SQL Explainer work?

The SQL Explainer parses your query and generates a plain English explanation of what it does. It breaks down each clause (SELECT, FROM, JOIN, WHERE, etc.), identifies tables and columns involved, explains relationships, and provides performance optimization tips.

What formatting options are available?

You can customize: Keyword case (UPPERCASE, lowercase, or preserve), indent size (2 or 4 spaces), indent type (spaces or tabs), and comma position (trailing or leading). These options let you match your team's coding standards.

Is my SQL query data safe?

Yes, completely. All processing happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your SQL queries never leave your device and are not sent to any server. This makes it safe to format queries containing sensitive data like credentials or business logic.

What is the difference between Format and Minify?

Format adds proper indentation, line breaks, and spacing to make SQL readable. Minify does the opposite - it removes all unnecessary whitespace and comments to create the most compact version possible, useful for embedding in code or reducing payload size.

Can I use keyboard shortcuts?

Currently, the tool works with button clicks. You can paste SQL directly into the input area (Ctrl/Cmd+V), and the formatted result can be copied with one click. The output automatically updates as you type or paste new queries.

What are the performance tips based on?

The performance tips analyze common SQL anti-patterns: using SELECT * instead of specific columns, missing WHERE clauses on UPDATE/DELETE, leading wildcards in LIKE clauses that prevent index usage, functions on columns in WHERE that bypass indexes, and suggestions for indexing JOIN columns.

sql helper

SQL Formatter & Explainer

Format, beautify, and understand your SQL queries. Get instant formatting with syntax highlighting and plain English explanations of what your query does. Supports MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, SQLite, and Oracle.

Paste your SQL

Formatted

Formatted SQL will appear here

Try an example:

How to Use the SQL Formatter

Paste Your SQL

Paste your SQL query into the input area. The tool accepts any valid SQL statement from simple SELECTs to complex JOINs.

Select Your Dialect

Choose your SQL dialect (MySQL, PostgreSQL, etc.) for optimal formatting of dialect-specific syntax.

Format or Explain

Click Format for beautifully indented SQL, Minify for compact output, or Explain for a plain English breakdown.

Copy and Use

Copy the formatted SQL with one click. Review the explanation and performance tips to optimize your queries.

Features

🎨 Syntax Highlighting

Color-coded keywords, functions, strings, and numbers for easy reading and debugging.

📖 Plain English Explanations

Understand what your query does with human-readable breakdowns of each clause.

⚡ Performance Tips

Get suggestions for optimizing your queries, including index recommendations.

🔧 Customizable Formatting

Adjust keyword case, indentation, and comma position to match your style guide.

🌐 Multiple Dialects

MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, SQLite, and Oracle all supported out of the box.

🔒 100% Client-Side

Your queries never leave your browser. Safe for sensitive data and credentials.

Common SQL Clauses

Query Clauses

SELECT - Columns to retrieve
FROM - Source table(s)
WHERE - Filter conditions
JOIN - Combine tables
GROUP BY - Group results

Additional Clauses

HAVING - Filter groups
ORDER BY - Sort results
LIMIT - Restrict row count
WITH - Common Table Expressions
UNION - Combine result sets

Frequently Asked Questions

SQL formatting is the process of structuring SQL queries with consistent indentation, line breaks, and keyword capitalization. Well-formatted SQL is 40% easier to debug and reduces code review time by up to 60%. It makes complex queries readable and maintainable, especially in team environments.

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