Topic 13612 min readStructured Tutorial
Recursive Common Table Expressions (CTE) in SQL Server
Quick Answer
A Recursive Common Table Expression (CTE) in SQL Server is a powerful query construct that allows you to perform recursive operations, such as traversing hierarchical data or generating sequences, by referencing itself within its definition.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the concept and syntax of Recursive CTEs in SQL Server.
- Learn how to write recursive queries to handle hierarchical data.
- Apply Recursive CTEs to practical scenarios like organizational charts and tree traversals.
Introduction
Recursive Common Table Expressions (CTEs) are a special type of CTE in SQL Server that enable recursive querying. They are particularly useful for working with hierarchical data such as organizational charts, folder structures, or bill of materials.
Unlike regular CTEs, recursive CTEs reference themselves to repeatedly execute a query until a termination condition is met.
