SQL Server Fundamentals: Best Practices

Design a Normalized Database Schema

Create a simple database schema for a bookstore normalized to 3NF.

Expected output: A set of normalized tables with primary keys and foreign keys.

Hint: Identify entities like Books, Authors, and Orders and define relationships.

Create Indexes for Performance

Analyze a sample query and create appropriate indexes to optimize it.

Expected output: SQL statements creating clustered and non-clustered indexes.

Hint: Focus on columns used in WHERE and JOIN clauses.

Implement a Backup Plan

Design a backup schedule for a production database with minimal downtime.

Expected output: A documented backup strategy with frequency and types of backups.

Hint: Consider full, differential, and transaction log backups.

Indexing improves query performance by allowing faster data retrieval. However, indexes add overhead to data modification operations, so they must be used judiciously.

Normalization reduces data redundancy and improves data integrity by organizing tables and relationships efficiently.

By using Windows Authentication, applying least privilege access, encrypting sensitive data, keeping the server updated, and auditing database activity.