SQL Functions: Scalar Functions

Scalar functions are SQL functions that return a single value based on the input arguments passed to them. Generally, scalar functions are used to perform calculations on single values such as strings, numbers, or dates.

Syntax

FUNCTION_NAME(argument1, argument2, ...)

Example

Consider the following example to find the length of a name using the SQL LEN() function:

SELECT LEN('John')

Output

4

Explanation

The LEN() function calculates the length of a string passed to it as an argument.

Use

Scalar functions can be used in various scenarios, including:

• To perform calculations on single values
• To manipulate strings
• To perform basic arithmetic calculations

Important Points

• Scalar functions accept only one argument.
• If the data type of the input argument does not match the expected data type in the function, then an error is thrown.

Summary

Scalar functions are SQL functions that return a single value based on the input arguments passed to them. They are used for performing calculations on single values such as strings, numbers, or dates. Scalar functions can be used to manipulate strings, perform basic arithmetic calculations, etc. They accept only one argument, and if the data type of the input argument does not match the expected data type in the function, then an error is thrown.