Understanding the DENSE_RANK() Function in MySQL

In MySQL, the DENSE_RANK() function is a window function that returns the rank of the current row within its partition, without gaps.

By “without gaps” this means that it returns contiguous rank numbers whenever there are peers. Peers are considered ties and receive the same rank. In such cases, the next rank value is one greater than the current one (i.e. the one that the peers receive).

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Introduction to the OVER Clause in SQL

When running SQL database queries, sometimes we need to use a window function in order to get the results we’re looking for. A window function is an aggregate-like function that enables partitioning and ordering of data within a result set.

The OVER clause is what enables us to create a window function.

The examples below demonstrate how we can incorporate the OVER clause in our SQL queries.

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