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Beginning SQL Joes 2 Pros: The SQL Hands-On Guide for Beginners (SQL Exam Prep Series 70-433 Volume 1 of 5) (Sql Design Series)

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Editorial Reviews

Several years ago a challenge was given to technology instructor Rick A. Morelan. Take downsized workers with little or no experience with computers or technology and turn them into industry certified technology experts. The proven material from this venture is now available to you as the Joes 2 Pros series of books and videos. This new approach has vivid pictures on almost every page that shows what you should see on your computer screen as you work through the material, and downloadable multi-media content, home practice labs, software, and fun review games available from the joes2pros web site. Starting with the basic lesson: 'What is a Database?' this book helps beginners get comfortable with the SQL language. From there, you will walk step-by-step through the basics. 'Beginning SQL Joes 2 Pros' is the second edition of the popular 'T-SQL Joes 2 Pros' with updated content and a lower price. There is no need to buy both books if you already own 'T-SQL Joes 2 Pros'. The language examples in this book can be used with any standard SQL engine. Regardless of your skill level, you too can evolve from 'Joe" to "Pro' by following the steps outlined in this book.

Customer Reviews

This book is a fantastic starting point for anyone looking to learn SQL, as well as start studying for the 70-433 Microsoft certification. Whereas a lot of books assume you already KNOW SQL, and are simply brushing up (even though they use terms like 'Starting' or 'Beginners'), this book really DOES start you from the very beginning, even explaining what a database is, and leads you very clearly through queries, joining, DDL, DML, and even things like stored procedures and security, all in a very balanced, non-threatening way. Never is there a wall that you hit, like you do in some books, where you're reading along, feeling like you're 'getting it', and you turn a page and nothing makes sense any more. Everything builds very nicely on everything else, and by the end, you truly understand everything you've gone through so far.

This is a real winner, and I very much look forward to all the other volumes in the series.

This book is highly recommended for people who know little to nothing about SQL. I was one of them. All the topics are explained in a simple, concise language, augmented with lots of pictures, which made it very easy for me to follow. This kept me interested from start to finish, which many other books failed had to do earlier. The video tutorials were of great help as well. The labs helped me fortify the skills that the book taught me. I cannot wait to start with Volume 2 of the series!

I was skeptical about ordering because I always see products online saying they're the best or that they will help you learn the quickest. When it comes to Joes 2 Pros they're absolutely telling the truth about the effectiveness of the product!

Your approach to training has been by far the easiest I've found, plus your instructions actually work unlike other books! I've tried other books that are supposed to be for beginners and they either leave out crucial steps or their sample code and instructions fail to execute.

I also love the fact that a you can read the book, view videos and then do labs or you can switch it up. This training caters to all learning styles! Bravo!

If you're a beginner (like me) or just feel the need to brush up on your skills, I highly recommend Joes 2 Pros.

*UPDATE* 3/5/2011
I took advantage of the awesome special to get the Kindle edition for $5.99! What an excellent option to have available for those of use who are on the move. Now I can always have my book with me on my Kindle for iPhone app and study when it's convenient. The digital edition is well done and displays perfect, even on the smaller iPhone display. If an image appears, just double-tap it and it zooms in so you can easily see it!
I'm growing more and more fond of this product and can't wait to continue my studies! Grab the Kindle editions when you have a chance because I really don't think you'll be disappointed. My next goal is to figure out how to attend the classes in Washington because I bet it would be just as great.

Straight forward, great examples. This is seriously one of the best beginners books I've ever read! It's a rare treat to work with a book that doesn't have typos or errors in the code provided. Seriously, the best beginners SQL book out there.

I am still working through this book, but I wanted to share my insights on the book thus far. What strikes me most about the author, Rick Morelan, is that he is down to earth (refreshing) in his teaching approach and presentation, and places a high value on his students' (readers) time. He wastes absolutely no time jumping right into some extremely practical examples of how SQL works. He follows up lessons with practical labs/exercises, which help solidify one's understanding of new material. This method works really well with my learning style. As a sidenote, I realize there is more to SQL than what is presented, but the author's intention is not to cover every aspect of SQL. However, the core nuts and bolts that are in this book definitely help start the learning flywheel. I have another SQL book, but it was a bit over my head as a beginner. At this early stage, I needn't be bogged down in trivial aspects of SQL, but rather the core fundamentals, which are clearly explained in this book.

Important knowledge is presented in a succinct but very illuminating fashion. The labs/exercises help to solidify the new knowledge. I also have the accompanying DVD (sold separately, but worth it if you are a visual learner) to this book, and it marries up nicely with the book. On the whole, just seeing the birds eye view of how SQL operates and how things fit together will be a good platform for launching into more advanced topics, or diving deeper into topics already covered.

I am a one-man IT department, but to date have very little knowledge of SQL and SQL Server (not my responsibility, but I am quite interested, thus my purchase of this book!). I have been fairly intimidated about learning SQL Server, especially about where to begin and where to turn for reliable and helpful beginner's information (since there are so many options out there!). I am glad I selected this series. I have a good feeling Mr. Morelan's resources will save me a lot of time ... and money ... as I continue forward with his series! Well done to the authors!

As with most newbie's trying to learn SQL, I have struggled with UNIONS, JOINS, and SubQuerys concepts. I know little to nothing about SQL and need to get up to speed fast for some projects at work. I realize that just reading a book and watching SQL tutorials on YouTube will not make me a SQL guru overnight, but just turning to the JOINS section "I learned more from this book on "joins" in five minutes than I did for a course I paid a lot of money for." If you are looking for a solid foundation to build your SQL skills on, then Joes 2 Pros series books are the indispensable tools you need. This book is highly recommended. Wish I could give it six stars!!

I am partially new to SQL, only did a quick ran over it in school before. I am currently going through this book, and I must say that I am learning quite a bit and it is very easy to process and understand. The examples are also very good, since they give life-like scenarios that you may relate to later on in the work environment. Also after going through a chapter you have labs, review, and a bug catcher which test you on what u currently read. I would most definitely recommend this book for anyone looking to get started in SQL.

OMG! finally a great tool. I love books like this. Rick has done a great job.
If you go to [...] and check out his videos. wow what a treat.
It is nice to have a guy who really wants you to master SQL. I mean the text size and screenshots are big enough for you to follow along and practice the labs.
I mean and the way he has it logically formatted to help you learn. I am buying his entire set on SQL. As a network engieer or admin, these books are a must. And so many so called experts create a so called academic version with too much fluff and not enought Puff! Rick Morelan's books on SQL give lots of Puff without too much Fluff! fantastic book...hit the ground running kind of book. yeah!

I'm a beginner trying to learn SQL SERVER. I'm not a develper or a DBA. I'm not ever familiar with Access, Oracle or any other type of database system. Complete NEWBIE as you might say. In the begining, I was drawn to this book from the great reviews. I quickly made up my mind to buy all of JOES 2 PROS book. I went thru the first two chapter on the first day and was gaining knowledge in a hurry each day. The approach of read, watch video and working on practice lessons work like a dream for me. The short and rather less wordy sections does not intimidate and serve well to me keep on reading. Short, concise, and sweet. Easy access videos, great skill practice questions, and handy answer keys. I easily went thru the first book in less than two weeks and having a hard time putting these books down. I wish Mr. Morelan plan to expand his series of book to cover other certification exam series beside 70-433 and 70-536. This is a very strong 5 STARS.

I received the book on May 27, 2011. It is easy to read and I love that it has a companion website and material to download. I am already working on the labs! I think I will be buying the remaining 4 books of the series! It is really good! The book arrived right on time!

I just finished the Beginning SQL Joes 2 Pros book and video. I was extremely impressed regarding the presentation of the material and the content itself. Unlike some beginning documentation, I wasn't made to feel like a "dummy", nor was I subjected to extraneous jokes or humor to get the point across. The material was easy-to-understand, presented in a logical order, and targeted at an inquisitive, but intelligent audience.
As a person who has dabbled with SQL code for some time, and am anxious to get my certification, this set of books will be instrumental in that effort. Kudos to Rick and the other contributors!

I am new to the programming side of IT. If you are new to SQL, Joes 2 Pros is a must for you! I so very much enjoyed his teaching style "the book, videos, labs, bug catcher, the whole package".... A Good Job Kudos to Rick and his team for putting the Joes 2 Pros material together!! Joes 2 Pros makes learning SQL for a newbie very easy for any learning style!

Books - T SQL 2008 and SQL Queries and SQL Architecture Basics

I have been lucky to have this series of books recommended to me. I searched for a quality uncomplicated guide to enable me to understand SQL Server and Joes 2 Pros is my Eureka moment. Clear explanations, clear examples and well explained that leaves me totally confident to start my new job. Their accompanying website has all the answer scripts and videos explanations for all required. As an aside, I contacted Joes to Pros asking a question. Wow - the author Rick Morelan personally emailed me clarifying my question and wishing me good luck in my training. Quality books, quality website, quality customer service that leaves me feeling that I count as a customer. Buy these books and sit the SQL Exam 70-433 with total confidence. A huge thanks to Rick and his awesome team at Joes 2 Pros.

I have being using SQL Server for many years but never really got deep into it. Recently there was a need for a customer of mine to get into the meat of it and this book has been a very valuable resource for me to deliver. I am happy to recommend Joes2Pros! I have had the opportunity to meet the author and in conversations with him you can tell he has a love for what he does, this was not just an exercise.

Very easy to read book on what is typically a very difficult subject. Rick's supporting materials make learning easy. Love the videos!

This book is poetic. It introduces a topic; it explains a topic; then it confirms the topic. I'm about to dive into Volume II; after reading volume I, I anxiously look forward to the next insights. The author really wants you to understand and master the concepts. I like the exercises; they come with download files and answers. For me, explanation, examples and exercises, "The Three E's", is the best way for me to learn. And, this book doesn't let me down. The author is genuine! And, I just got offered a job based on my SQL knownledge.

Update to original post below: J2P did get back to me, Rick himself actually. The videos are in production and he estimates them to be available in 3 - 4 weeks. I bought the item not only because Rick's lessons are exceptionally coherent, but also because he has excellent diction which for me speeds the learning process immensely. So there's the update on the video. Taking Rick at his word for the forthcoming videos and from the first chapters he put online, I'll bump J2P chapter 1 up to a 5 star production.

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Yes, Rick is a great instructor. I liked his first online videos well enough so that I bought the book, but I have been disappointed that not only video for the rest is not included with the book, there is no link for it online nor can I find anywhere to buy it! Further, I emailed J2P asking for info how to get the rest of the video - no answer??? Hmmm, I'm beginning to wonder if it exists ...

So if you're buying this book with the intention of utilizing the accompanying video, well don't bother. It appears to not exist ...

Rick if you're reading this, tell me how to get the rest of the video and I'll revise this commentary.

Short Review:

This is one book that provides a solid fundamental to the reader along with hands-on experience and in-depth learning. Right now, an error-free book that is closer to real world scenarios is very much in need. This one fundamental book can take the reader for a wonderful ride, where he/she can learn the advanced aspects of the subject very quickly. Instead of pure theory, this book focuses on real diagrams, examples or just a pure old-school-style exercise, which appeals the readers the most.

Detail Review:
Almost all of us agree on the fact that there are very few SQL Server Experts in the industry. There are really not many SQL Server Experts out there when compared to the work load available. There is always demand of good employees everywhere and every time. There has not been a single scenario where a truly talented person has no job, but there have been many instances where a great potential project has been started due to lack of experts. Now the real question is how do these excellent people excel every time? How did they start and how did they ever reach where they are today. The answer is simple - Solid Fundamentals. Solid Fundamentals come from hands-on experience.

The book written by Rick is one of those books I am delighted to read myself. I have referred this book to many professionals and beginners and have received very positive comments. The reason why I personally liked the book is that it is loyal to the title till the last page. I know Rick; he is a master and expert in Database. When you meet him, you won't fail to notice the spark and enthusiasm in his eyes for this technology. He has understood the fundamentals very thoroughly and has expressed deep understanding of the subject. Besides all these, he takes care not to show off his status or knowledge in the book. This book reflects his deep understanding, without arrogance or overuse of the word "I." In fact, his book is one of those books, which does not lose its focus - i.e., the readers - which is all of us.

This book starts with some very basic concepts; if you are an expert or have experience of more than 5 years in database, you can skim through the first 3 chapters. I personally read through them as I had figured out that no matter how much I know, I always learn something new. Chapter 4 on Query Strategies is the point you need to stop and start paying attention to the details. Rick has masterfully laid all the chapters after that and I have personally learned some new tricks as well.

Chapter 9 is again one of those chapters which I recommend for every expert. It talks about transaction control language. This stands important to all of those who do not use transactional control language command on a daily basis. After completing this chapter, I really wanted to read more of it.

The most attractive point of this book is the sections which show up in each chapter - Points to Ponder, Review Quiz, Glossary and Bug Catcher Game. The unique addition here is the Bug Catcher Game. I have no doubt that this section will soon become main stream and you will start finding it in many different books - such a novel idea to learn a subject!

Rating: 4.5 Stars out of 5 Star

Note: If my daughter ever decides to learn SQL Server, I will surely ask her to read this book.

When i found this book I had no experience with SQL this book made easy step by step explainations.
I found that even in this first book it gave me a step up on people that have done this for years.
When i went to the next book it made me ready for the interviews. I can't wait for the rest of the series.SQL Queries Joes 2 Pros: SQL Query Techniques For Microsoft SQL Server 2008, Volume 2

I have been wanting to learn SQL programming for quite some time but I've always came across other SQL books that were too confusing for a beginner to understand. I found Joes 2 Pros "Beginning SQL" while researching "SQL" on Youtube and loved the video and the teaching structure. I went on the website and ordered Volumes 1 & 2. I am so glad I did. I have completed Volume 1 and is already feeling confident in SQL programming. The techniques taught in the books are structured so anyone can easily learn how to program in SQL. The website has downloads for "The Bug Catcher" games and labs for each chapter for the hands-on experience. Now when I review some of the other SQL books that once left me confused I can finally understand it. I highly recommend Joes 2 Pros books for anyone interested in learning SQL. This is the most ejoyable way to learn a programming language and is definately a great investment.

I rarely get past chapter 5 in most computer books I'm now on chapter 7 and going strong. I highly reccommmend this book for anyone who wants to get a graps of the core of SQLness. I wish they had more than 5 stars to give. *****************

I am currently prepping for the 70-433 SQL Server exam using the Joe2Pros books. My only regret is not coming accross this material before spending so much money on other books promising to bring you up to speed no matter what level you are at. As I've discovered they were all with empty promises. My last investment was the Microsoft SQL Server 2008 step by step and for the past year its been such a struggle just to digest 5 of its 26 chapters. With "Beginning SQL Joes 2 Pros" the material is presented in such a manner that I CAN GUARANTEE you'll learn! Its truly a hands on guide for beginners. I am yet to re-read a chapter and I am learning and applying what I've read. There are labs, quizzes, interactive games designed in such a manner to test what you've been learning while having fun. This is by far THE BEST book on the market if you are really interested in learning about SQL Server! The cost of this book is really inexpensive to what it truly offers when compared to other $49+ books on the top sellers list. I've purchased the available 2 of 5 volumes in the series and anxiously await the others. Its WORTH every penny you will spend and I am positive you'll be sharing raving reviews with me as well :-)

I was so happy to finally find this book. My goal was to become certified and pass the Microsoft exam 70-433 exam and obtain the SQL 2008 Database Developer certification. I am proud to say I have finally done it! And it all started with this book. I started out learning SQL at a local community college and was disappointed by the class structure and course materials and quickly found out there was no way I was going to pass the MS exam. With the Joes2Pros series you will benefit from all of Rick's SQL experience and hard work presented in an easy to understand format with Labs and videos so you can practice at home. Building a solid foundation is the most important step in any learning experience. And it does not get any better than this.

Really the book heading "Beginning SQL Joes 2 Pros" meant verymuch to it. This book helps even a Laymen (who has logical reasoning) to learn SQL more quicker. "A Picture worth than 1000 words" is apt in this book, it has more pictures that helps the learners to understand without any confusion. Again "A Video worth than 1000 Picture" The video are really awesome, no words to say about it. The book is logically formated in a way to understand and correlate the things which were used in the previous chapters.

I am sure all Joes are going to be Pros!

I have a pretty good practical working knowledge of SQL, but lots of holes. This book filled in the gaps and gave me lots of practical help instead of pure theory.

The best book anybody can buy. Good for starters and others too as it covers SQL in depth. I thought I new lot of SQL but reading Volume 1, 2 and 3 made me very confident in SQL and ready for certification.

As a fulltime homemaker with 2 kids and trying to keep abreast of the everchanging SQL technology. This book nails it to the point, short and sweet. It's like reading a magazine article or a powerpoint slide - few words with a lot of substance in each sentence.

Wow! I am so glad a friend recommended this book to me after my boss told me to learn SQL for some upcoming assignments. Its such good feeling to know you are doing it right and Joes 2 Pros made it SO EASY! After reading this book, doing the labs, and watching the videos from the joes2Pros web site I totally get it! In fact my wife and I watch the videos together and are having fun learning while she learns it too. We really enjoy the downloadable learning games at the end of each chapter. Reading each chapter is something I look forward to like a hobby instead of having to discipline myself to out of some obligation. We have just finished the book and have ordered the second book in the Joes 2 Pros certification series.

I was looking for material that would help me with T-SQL and understanding SQL Server 2008. I found the Joes 2 Pros ebooks on the Amazon site, read the reviews and saw that they were highly recommended by other readers. I downloaded the samples for my Kindle and checked them out. I thought the style of instruction was intuitive and extremely clear. The videos, accompanying database samples, and skill tests are a perfect why to test my progress. As the other reader have all ready stated, I highly recommend any book in the Joes 2 Pros series (I purchased them all - except 'SQL Interoperability Joes 2 Pros' as it is unavailable on Kindle at the moment).

After taking on a new position at work, I was forced to start learning SQL. I was not overly enthusiatic about this as I had heard many negative comments about trying to learn SQL - most recommended I sign up for a class but I didn't have hundreds of dollars to invest. After doing a bit of research, I purchased Beginning SQL Joes 2 Pros: The SQL Hands-On Guide for Beginners (SQL Exam Prep Series 70-433 Volume 1 of 5) (Sql Design Series). I also purchased SQL Svr Developer Edtn 2008 R2 32-bit/x64 IA64 English DVD as recommended in the book. I am so glad I did!
The book is organized in a easy to follow format. The corresponding labs (free download from Joes 2 Pros website) affirm my understanding of the concepts. The videos from the Joes 2 Pros website help when I need further explaination. I whole-heartedly recommend this book for anyone learning SQL - even novices like me! I would also suggest you visit the website and take the placement quiz to establish which book (there are five volumes) is right for you. You won't be disappointed with the content or the excellent customer support offered by Rick Morelan!

Loved the book and I got the Volume 1 book with the DVD and what a difference that makes. I found the two work together extremely well, and they helped my comprehension of SQL. The video helped to understand the material better. Now I am confidently using these skills at work every day.

Are you struggling with SQL in class, or barely 'getting it' at work? This is ABSOLUTELY the best place to start your quest for a career as a Database Developer, Administrator, or Business Intelligence Analyst. The information, guidance and supporting materials are simply priceless!

From the moment you read the Preface and Introduction of Beginning SQL Joes 2 Pros, you will find a whole new learning experience waiting to be discovered. Rick Morelan and crew have gone to great lengths creating a complete learning environment built specifically for its intended audience.

Much more than a book, it is a Killer Application, built on a comprehensive suite of educational products that could only have been designed, tested and implemented by an expert who truly understands the needs of a SQL Beginner and is committed to providing the best tools possible to help you achieve one success after another.

By the time you finish this book, watch the videos, perform the 'skill checks', answer the 'points to ponder' and spot the mistakes in the 'bug catcher', you will feel confident in your abilities to work with SQL, while looking forward to your next adventure in the Joes 2 Pros series.

In summary, if this were the late Nineteen Seventies, Fleetwood Mac would be singing a song dedicated to Rick Morelan called, "You Make Learning Fun".

Enjoy!

Beginning SQL Joes 2 Pros: The SQL Hands-On Guide for Beginners (SQL Exam Prep Series 70-433 Volume 1 of 5)

I have gone through 2 other books on DB Programming, before trying this out.
This is the first book in a long time, I could finish 100 percent and also easily run through all the examples.
Gave me a very good fundamental understanding of SQL Server 2008 R2 and SQL.
I am ready to buy the part 2,3,4 and 5 soon!

For an aspiring DBA like myself, this is a tremendous resource as a starting point. I really like the style of small chunks of info followed by labs and a quiz. Chapter after chapter new concepts were introduced and previous ones reinforced. Outside resources - labs & files - were a breeze to download and implement. Waiting anxiuosly to get my book 2 of the series. I have recommended this to other guys at work. What's really cool is that you can rent the DVD of the book for a week from Amazon.

This book is truly a beginners book for learning SQL. It is structured very well and makes learning such a nebious topic fun. This is the most approachable way to learning SQL without being turned off.

This book does a fine job at giving me the BIG picture of SQL Server training. ONLY ONE THING from stopping this from being a GREAT book, Wish it had a Video CD for examples and, How-To.

Only books 1 & 2 in this series have been released.

Books 3-5 are months behind their scheduled release and the company is being unresponsive as to their actual release dates.

I would not recommend this series of books at this time.

I was very happy with volumes 1 & 2 but where are volumes 3 - 5?? 3 & 4 were supposed to be available for sale already and 5 was to be available before Christmas. Now I will have to switch to the Microsoft series so I can be ready for the 70-433 exam by the end of the year.

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