Query Writing

Query Writing Skill

Workflow for Simple Queries

For straightforward questions about a single table:

1. Identify the table - Which table has the data?
2. Get the schema - Use sql_db_schema to see columns
3. Write the query - SELECT relevant columns with WHERE/LIMIT/ORDER BY
4. Execute - Run with sql_db_query
5. Format answer - Present results clearly

Workflow for Complex Queries

For questions requiring multiple tables:

1. Plan Your Approach

Use write_todos to break down the task:

• Identify all tables needed
• Map relationships (foreign keys)
• Plan JOIN structure
• Determine aggregations

2. Examine Schemas

Use sql_db_schema for EACH table to find join columns and needed fields.

3. Construct Query

• SELECT - Columns and aggregates
• FROM/JOIN - Connect tables on FK = PK
• WHERE - Filters before aggregation
• GROUP BY - All non-aggregate columns
• ORDER BY - Sort meaningfully
• LIMIT - Default 5 rows

4. Validate and Execute

Check all JOINs have conditions, GROUP BY is correct, then run query.