The 6 SERIAL Data Types in PostgreSQL

The SERIAL data type in PostgreSQL is a pseudo-type used to create an auto-incrementing sequence of integers for a column. It is commonly used for primary keys, as it eliminates the need to manually assign unique identifiers for each new record. PostgreSQL handles this by automatically creating a sequence object that supplies a unique number each time a new row is inserted.

PostgreSQL provides three SERIAL types, each with two options for usage; which effectively equates to six different types. So basically, we have six options to choose from when creating a SERIAL column.

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Column Constraints vs Table Constraints in SQL: What’s the Difference?

In relational database management systems (RDBMSs), constraints are nifty tools that we can use to ensure the integrity, accuracy, and reliability of the data stored in our database.

Constraints can enforce rules at the column and table levels, guiding how data can be inserted, updated, or deleted. Whether you’re defining the uniqueness of a value, establishing relationships between tables, or ensuring that critical fields are never left blank, constraints play an important role in the design of relational databases.

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