SQL WINDOW FUNCTIONS

Window functions in SQL are powerful tools for performing complex calculations across sets of rows that are related to the current row within a query. These functions are used to perform operations that require awareness of the context of the rows in a result set, such as calculating running totals, averages, or rankings.

Basic Concept of SQL Window Functions

Partitioning Data: Window functions allow you to partition your data into groups, similar to a GROUP BY clause, but without collapsing the rows into a single output row per group. This means you can calculate aggregate values (like sums and averages) while still keeping the individual rows of your data.

Ordering and Framing: Within each partition, you can order the rows and define a frame or window (a subset of rows) to perform calculations. This is useful for operations like running totals or moving averages.

Access to Rows: Window functions can access other rows in the frame without causing a group by effect. This allows calculations across multiple rows while still returning a value for each row in the original dataset.

Examples of Window Functions

Running Total: Calculate a cumulative sum within a partition.

SELECT   order_id,   amount,   SUM(amount) OVER (PARTITION BY seller_id ORDER BY order_date) AS running_total FROM orders;

Ranking: Assign a rank within a partition.

SELECT   name,   salary,   RANK() OVER (ORDER BY salary DESC) AS salary_rank FROM employees;

Moving Average: Calculate a moving average in a set of rows.

SELECT   order_id,   amount,   AVG(amount) OVER (PARTITION BY seller_id ORDER BY order_date ROWS BETWEEN 1 PRECEDING AND 1 FOLLOWING) AS moving_avg FROM orders;

Lead and Lag: Access data from the following or preceding row.

SELECT   order_id,   amount,  LAG(amount, 1) OVER (ORDER BY order_id) AS previous_amount,  LEAD(amount, 1) OVER (ORDER BY order_id) AS next_amount FROM orders;

Key Points of Window Functions

Non-Aggregate Calculations: Unlike traditional aggregate functions, window functions do not cause rows to become grouped into a single output row — each row in the result set retains its separate identity.

OVER Clause: The OVER clause defines the window, specifying the partitioning and ordering of rows for the calculation.

Frame Specification: You can further refine the window function by specifying a frame (the subset of rows to be considered in the calculation).

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