T-SQL Window Functions: For data analysis and beyond, 2nd Edition

Most T-SQL developers recognize the value of window functions for data analysis calculations. But they can do far more, and recent optimizations make them even more powerful. In T-SQL Window Functions, renowned T-SQL expert Itzik Ben-Gan introduces breakthrough techniques for using them to handle many common T-SQL querying tasks with unprecedented elegance and power. Using extensive code examples, he guides you through window aggregate, ranking, distribution, offset, and ordered set functions. You’ll find a detailed section on optimization, plus an extensive collection of business solutions — including novel techniques available in no other book.

Microsoft MVP Itzik Ben-Gan shows how to:

• Use window functions to improve queries you previously built with predicates

• Master essential SQL windowing concepts, and efficiently design window functions

• Effectively utilize partitioning, ordering, and framing

• Gain practical in-depth insight into window aggregate, ranking, offset, and statistical functions

• Understand how the SQL standard supports ordered set functions, and find working solutions for functions not yet available in the language

• Preview advanced Row Pattern Recognition (RPR) data analysis techniques

• Optimize window functions in SQL Server and Azure SQL Database, making the most of indexing, parallelism, and more

• Discover a full library of window function solutions for common business problems