CASE vs. IF-ELSE in SQL

Access this blog for free: https://medium.com/@vishalbarvaliya/case-vs-if-else-in-sql-48aaba6b0ec0?sk=4c5a469587f79cebd55f504d59a62405

When writing SQL queries, you might encounter scenarios where you need to handle conditional logic. In SQL, you can use either the `CASE` statement or `IF`/`IF-ELSE` statements to implement such logic. Understanding the differences between these options and knowing when to use each can significantly enhance your query-writing skills.

In this blog, we will explore the `CASE` statement and `IF/IF-ELSE` constructs in SQL, providing clear explanations, examples, and comparisons to help you understand their use and applications.

Image By Author

What is the CASE Statement?

The `CASE` statement in SQL allows you to perform conditional logic within your queries. It is used to return specific values based on certain conditions. This statement can be used in `SELECT`, `UPDATE`, `DELETE`, and `INSERT` statements.

Syntax of CASE Statement

There are two types of `CASE` statements:

1. Simple CASE Statement:

• Syntax:

CASE expression
         WHEN value1 THEN result1
         WHEN value2 THEN result2
         ...
         ELSE default_result
     END