SQL INSTR() Function – Medium Cross Post

Character and text data are such an integral component of data that most all programming languages provide many functions, constructs, and even libraries to help process text data. I recently used the Oracle SQL INSTR() function in some text-parsing queries. However, these queries were not standalone INSTR() only. INSTR() is also quite powerful as a parameter for other string functions, namely SUBSTR(), in this example. Continue reading to learn more…

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SUBSTR() and INSTR() – Dynamic Duo

I published a post over on Medium about using the INSTR() function as a parameter for the SUBSTR() function, providing dynamic-like query results. SUBSTR() paired up with INSTR() makes for some powerful and flexible queries.

For all the details, read the full post, SQL INSTR() String Function as a dynamic parameter.


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How have you used INSTR() – or something comparable for your SQL implementation – in queries involving text and character data? Let me know in the comments below.

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Josh Otwell has a passion to study and grow as a SQL Developer and blogger. Other favorite activities find him with his nose buried in a good book, article, or the Linux command line. Among those, he shares a love of tabletop RPG games, reading fantasy novels, and spending time with his wife and two daughters.

Disclaimer: The examples presented in this post are hypothetical ideas of how to achieve similar types of results. They are not the utmost best solution(s). The majority, if not all, of the examples provided, are performed on a personal development/learning workstation environment and should not be considered production quality or ready. Your particular goals and needs may vary. Use those practices that best benefit your needs and goals. Opinions are my own.

Are you a Medium member? If so, receive an email notification each time I publish a blog post if you prefer the Medium platform. Not a member? No worries! Use my sign-up link (I will get a commission at no extra cost to you) and join. I really enjoy reading all the great content there and I know you will too!!!

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