Category: SQLite

Find Out if a Table is WITHOUT ROWID in SQLite

Posted on by Ian

One of SQLite’s unique features is the WITHOUT ROWID table, which can be used to optimize performance and storage in specific scenarios.

While it’s easy enough to create a WITHOUT ROWID table (just add WITHOUT ROWID to the definition), how to identify a WITHOUT ROWID table might not be so obvious.

In this article, we’ll start by briefly revising what WITHOUT ROWID tables are and how they differ from ordinary tables. Then we’ll look at how to identify these tables by using SQLite’s PRAGMA commands.

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Why SQLite Allows NULL Values in Primary Key Columns

Posted on by Ian

SQLite, one of the most widely used database engines, is known for its lightweight design, ease of use, and adherence to most aspects of the SQL standard. However, one notable deviation from the standard lies in its handling of PRIMARY KEY constraints. Unlike the SQL standard, SQLite allows NULL values in primary key columns in some cases.

Let’s look at the reasons behind this behavior, and explore the implications of NULL values in primary key columns. We’ll also examine SQLite’s treatment of NULL values as distinct for uniqueness constraints.

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How to Check a Table for Unique Indexes in SQLite

Posted on by Ian

Being able to ensure uniqueness in database tables is critical for maintaining data integrity. SQLite allows us to create unique indexes in order to enforce uniqueness, and it provides us with tools to check the unique indexes associated with a table.

This article outlines how to use the SQLite PRAGMA index_list() command to check a table for unique indexes.

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How to Create a Unique Index in SQLite

Posted on by Ian

SQLite is a lightweight, serverless SQL database engine commonly used for developing mobile applications, web applications, and embedded systems. Among its various functionalities, SQLite allows developers to create indexes, including unique indexes, to enhance data retrieval speed and enforce constraints on data integrity.

A unique index ensures that all values in a specific column, or combination of columns, are distinct, preventing duplicate entries.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the basics of unique indexes in SQLite, explore when and why to use them, and provide examples of how to create them.

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Understanding Type Affinity in SQLite

Posted on by Ian

SQLite is a lightweight, self-contained database engine renowned for its simplicity and flexibility. One of its unique features is the way it handles data types through type affinity, which determines how SQLite associates values with storage classes.

Unlike many database systems that enforce strict type constraints, SQLite’s type affinity system is more flexible, accommodating a broader range of data.

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How to Create a Partial Index in SQLite

Posted on by Ian

Partial indexing is a feature in many DBMSs, including SQLite, that allows developers to optimize database performance by creating indexes only for specific subsets of data. This can significantly reduce the index size and improve query speed, especially in cases where only a portion of the data is frequently queried.

In this article, we’ll look at how to create a partial index in SQLite, why it’s useful, and provide an example to illustrate its use.

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