The Un-Structured Student

SQL (Structured Query Language) is intended to liberate users from the complex syntax, complex semantics and complex memory management that would be required of a procedural approach to relational database manipulation, and so allow users to concentrate on problem-solving. However, students still have problems with language features, program concepts and the legacy of their prior learning. This paper aims to assist lecturers teaching SQL.We present typical student mistakes, attempt to explain why these mistakes arise, and propose possible remedies.