Database Roadmap

A journey from basic concepts to advanced techniques in managing and exploiting data.

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Phase Main Topic Content & Learning Activities Objectives & Deliverables
1. Foundation General Introduction
  • Concepts of Data, Information, Database Management System (DBMS).
  • Learn about popular DB models (relational, NoSQL).
  • Compare the advantages of DBMS over file storage.
  • Understand the core concepts of the database world.
2. Modeling Data Model
  • Entity-Relationship Model.
  • Practice drawing ER Diagrams.
  • Relational Model and Relational Algebra.
  • Types of data constraints (primary key, foreign key).
  • Ability to describe and structure data for a problem.
3. Interaction Database Language (SQL)
  • DDL (Data Definition Language): CREATE, ALTER, DROP.
  • DML (Data Manipulation Language): SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE.
  • DCL (Data Control Language): GRANT, REVOKE.
  • Learn about T-SQL/PL-SQL.
  • Master the standard language for interacting with databases.
4. Design Database Design
  • Rules for converting from ER Diagram to Relational Model.
  • Normalization forms: 1NF, 2NF, 3NF, BCNF.
  • Practice designing a database for a specific application.
  • Create an efficient and non-redundant database structure.
5. Programming Database Programming
  • Write Stored Procedures.
  • Use Triggers for automation.
  • Create Views to simplify queries.
  • Optimize performance with Indexes.
  • Build complex business logic within the database.
6. Transactions Transactions and Concurrency
  • Concept of Transactions and ACID properties.
  • Concurrency control problems and solutions.
  • Learn about Deadlock and how to handle it.
  • Ensure data consistency and integrity.
7. Security Recovery and Data Safety
  • Recovery techniques after failures (log-based recovery).
  • Backup and Recovery strategies.
  • Protect data from incidents and loss.
8. Advanced Distributed & Advanced Databases
  • Distributed Database Architecture.
  • Data Fragmentation and Replication techniques.
  • Introduction to NoSQL database systems (Key-Value, Document, Graph).
  • Expand knowledge to modern database systems.
9. Practical Real-world Applications
  • Analyze and design databases for management, banking, and e-commerce systems.
  • Understand the role of databases in Big Data and Cloud Computing.
  • Connect learned knowledge with real software systems.

Core Mindsets for Database Professionals

1. Data Integrity is Sacred

The primary goal is to ensure data is accurate, consistent, and reliable. All design and implementation choices should serve this principle.

2. Design Before You Build

A well-thought-out data model and schema are the foundation of a stable system. Time spent on design prevents significant problems in the future.

3. A Query is a Question

Think of SQL as a precise language for asking questions. The clarity and structure of your query directly impact the quality and performance of the answer.

4. Performance is a Feature

Slow data retrieval affects the entire application. Always consider indexing, query optimization, and efficient data access patterns as part of the job.