SQL is a command language that is used for communication with the Oracle server from any tool or application. Oracle SQL contains many extensions. When you enter a SQL statement, it is stored in a part of memory called the SQL buffer and remains there until you enter a new SQL statement. SQL*Plus is an Oracle tool that recognizes and submits SQL statements to the Oracle9i Server for execution. It contains its own command language.
Features of SQL
- Can be used by a range of users, including those with little or no programming experience
- Is a nonprocedural language
- Reduces the amount of time required for creating and maintaining systems
- Is an English-like language
Features of SQL*Plus
- Accepts ad hoc entry of statements
- Accepts SQL input from files
- Provides a line editor for modifying SQL statements
- Controls environmental settings
- Formats query results into basic reports
- Accesses local and remote databases
SQL Statements Versus SQL*Plus Commands
The following table compares SQL and SQL*Plus:
| SQL | SQL*Plus |
|---|---|
| Is a language for communicating with the Oracle server to access data | Recognizes SQL statements and sends them to the server |
| Is based on American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-standard SQL | Is the Oracle-proprietary interface for executing SQL statements |
| Manipulates data and table definitions in the database | Does not allow manipulation of values in the database |
| Is entered into the SQL buffer on one or more lines | Is entered one line at a time, not stored in the SQL buffer |
| Does not have a continuation character | Uses a dash (-) as a continuation character if the command is longer than one line |
| Cannot be abbreviated | Can be abbreviated |
| Uses a termination character to execute commands immediately | Does not require termination characters; executes commands immediately |
| Uses functions to perform some formatting | Uses commands to format data |