SQL Server TOP Clause

What is the TOP Clause?

The TOP clause is used in SQL Server SELECT statements to specify the maximum number of rows to return.

It is especially useful when you want to preview data, get the highest or lowest values, or improve query performance by limiting output.

• Syntax: SELECT TOP (number) column_list FROM table_name;
• You can also specify a percentage: SELECT TOP (percentage) PERCENT column_list FROM table_name;
• TOP must be followed by parentheses around the number or percentage.

Syntax and Usage

The basic syntax of the TOP clause includes the number of rows or percentage you want to retrieve.

You can combine TOP with ORDER BY to control which rows are returned.

• Example limiting rows: SELECT TOP (5) * FROM Employees;
• Example limiting percentage: SELECT TOP (10) PERCENT * FROM Sales;
• Use ORDER BY to get the top N highest or lowest values.

Practical Examples

Here are some common examples demonstrating the TOP clause in action.