WHERE

Definition

WHERE is a SQL clause used to filter rows before any grouping or aggregation, based on conditions on column values.

What Problem It Solves

It solves the need to select specific rows from a table instead of processing the entire dataset.

What Happens If Not Used

All rows are returned, meaning no filtering, so queries operate on full data.

Easy Wording

It “chooses rows that match a condition.”

Technical Example

From a student list, show only students who scored more than 70 marks. SELECT * FROM students WHERE marks > 70; Result: only rows where marks > 70 are included.