Help with where to start learning more in depth - Want a DBA job

Question

Help with where to start learning more in depth - Want a DBA job

clark.adamj89

SSC Veteran

Points: 222
More actions
January 9, 2013 at 6:15 am

#147802

This has probably been discussed before but thought id create my own thread so i can inform you of my background.
I have been in software support for around 5 years now, its only software roll out, configuration, fault diagnosis, database queries (SQL), general user support....that kinda of thing, have been usign transact sql for those 5 years, not done too much with it other that T-SQL, quering data, bulding queries for customers, find problems with data.
I really want to expand my knowledge of SQL and would like to become a DBA.
I have no idea where to start, obviously i have a good understanding of how sql works so im not a total begginer but i need to know where to start learning more.
So i guess i just want some direction as to what books i can start with? Though about the microsoft training kit books for SQL 2012 but then i thought that would only cover things i need to get the cert rather than getting the full comprehensive knowledge on the subject, please help!!

Viewing 6 posts - 1 through 5 (of 5 total)

You must be logged in to reply to this topic. Login to reply

Ant-Green SSC Guru Points: 113445 More actions · Answer 1

A good place to start would be the Accidental DBA guide (link in my signature), good book on some of the common problems faced.

The stairways section of the site as well has good topics starting from basic overviews to in depth detail as the stairway progresses etc.

Obivously nothing is better than experience. I would suggest purchasing a copy of the developer edition of SQL, usually around $50, it has all the same features as the Enterprise edition does but you cant use it in a production environment, and just play with it.

There are plenty of good books out on the internet about various topics, but would ultimatly come down to the path you want to take, will it be more development DBA work, support / production DBA work or business intelligence work.

clark.adamj89 SSC Veteran Points: 222 More actions · Answer 2

Thanks for your reply, I dont have a development backgroud so it would be more of a production DBA i would aim towards, Ive always loved learning sql and quering databases since i first started working with them.

Do you agree that i shouldnt start the the training kit books? I just think that i will miss out on information as the books are more to get the exam passed rather than learn everything properly?

Thanks again for your reply

Ant-Green SSC Guru Points: 113445 More actions · Answer 3

From my experience I didn't start out with the training kits, I got chucked in at the deep end in sort of a sink or swim environment as it was a very fast paced company.

For me nothing beats experience, I have seen many people turn up for interviews who have the certifications, but couldnt actually do the job as you could tell they have just memorised the things required to pass the exams.

While I'm not saying don't use the books as they may be beneficial to you, it's just not the way that I learned.

I used the training kit for 70-432 and found myelf skipping big chucks of it as it was to basic for what I knew.

clark.adamj89 SSC Veteran Points: 222 More actions · Answer 4

I totally agree, I was put into the deep end in my first job, straight into running queries and getting calls regarding data, everything i have learnt it from self tuition on the job as and when i needed it, i have a new job now and hardly use SQL which i am a bit gutted about, but i was bored in my old job and needed a change.

Thanks for the advice, ill take it on board.

Lynn Pettis SSC Guru Points: 442467 More actions · Answer 5

Also consider looking at not-for-profit organizations in your area. You may be able to volunteer your time to help support their database systems and gain experience at the same time.