Difference Between DROP TABLE and DELETE TABLE
It is crucial to understand the significant differences between the DROP TABLE and DELETE TABLE commands before executing any queries, as they can lead to data loss. Let’s clarify the distinctions between the two.
DROP TABLE
When you drop a table, you completely remove the table along with all its data and structure. This means that the table is entirely removed from the database, and you will no longer be able to retrieve any data from that table or store new data in it.
In simple terms, dropping a table means permanently eliminating the entire table from the database, and it cannot be recovered. Therefore, if you plan to drop a table, think carefully before proceeding.
Typically, you drop a table in two situations: when you no longer need it or when you want to create a new table with the same name but a different structure (i.e., different columns). Below is the common SQL query to drop a table:
SQL Query Command
DROP TABLE table_name;
Use the DROP TABLE command with caution, as a dropped table cannot be rolled back.
DELETE TABLE
In general, the DELETE TABLE command is used to remove records from a table without affecting its structure, and the deleted data can sometimes be rolled back using specific techniques. There are two main ways to use the DELETE TABLE command:
1. Delete All Records
If you want to delete all records from a table, you can use the following query. This will remove all records while keeping the table structure intact, allowing you to store new data in the same table:
DELETE FROM table_name;
2. Delete Certain Records
If you want to remove specific records (rows or columns) from the table, you can use this method. Records are deleted based on certain conditions, which can be specified using the WHERE clause. Here’s an example query:
DELETE FROM table_name WHERE column_name = value;
To summarize the differences:
- DROP TABLE: Deletes all data and the table structure. Once dropped, the table and its data cannot be rolled back.
- DELETE TABLE: Deletes only the data while preserving the table structure. You can delete specific data using the WHERE clause, and deleted data can sometimes be rolled back.