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Databases Intermediate

What is Normalization?

The process of organizing database tables to reduce data redundancy and improve data integrity.

Normalization structures a database into normal forms (1NF through 5NF, typically up to 3NF). First Normal Form eliminates repeating groups. Second Normal Form removes partial dependencies. Third Normal Form removes transitive dependencies.

Benefits include reduced data duplication, consistent updates, and smaller tables. Trade-offs include more JOINs and potentially slower reads. Denormalization intentionally adds redundancy for read performance.

Related Terms

Time-Series Database
A database optimized for storing and querying timestamped data points like metrics, sensor readings, and event logs.
Prepared Statement
A pre-compiled SQL template that uses parameters instead of literal values, preventing SQL injection and improving performance.
Query Optimization
The process of improving database query performance through indexing, query rewriting, and schema design techniques.
Crosstab Query
A query that transforms rows into columns, creating a pivot table view of aggregated data.
Partitioning
A technique of dividing large database tables into smaller, more manageable segments while maintaining a single logical table.
Schema
The structure definition of a database including tables, columns, data types, relationships, indexes, and constraints.
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