This book will teach you to use MySQL using its Community Server (also known as the Community Edition), which is free to use and has the features most people need. There are also paid versions of MySQL, including the Enterprise Edition, that come with extra features and capabilities. All editions run on a wide variety of operating systems, such as Linux, Windows, macOS, and even the cloud, and have a robust set of features and tools. 

Throughout this book, you’ll explore the most useful parts of MySQL development, as well as insights I’ve picked up over the years. We’ll cover how to write SQL statements; create tables, functions, triggers, and views; and ensure the integrity of your data. In the last three chapters, you’ll see how to use MySQL in the real world through hands-on projects. 

This book is suitable for anyone interested in MySQL, including folks new to MySQL and databases, developers who would like a refresher, and even seasoned software developers transitioning to MySQL from another database system. 

Since this book focuses on MySQL development rather than administration, MySQL database administrators (DBAs) may want to look elsewhere. While I occasionally wander into a topic of interest to a DBA (like granting permissions on tables), I don’t delve into server setup, storage capacity, backup, recovery, or most other DBA-related issues. 

I’ve designed this book for MySQL beginners, but if you’d like to attempt the exercises in your own MySQL environment, Chapter 1 will guide you through downloading and installing MySQL.