, C175 Database Management Study Guide
(Lessons 1 to 7)
This guide covers the standard topics in an introductory database course: database basics, the
relational model, SQL, data modeling, normalization, and transactions. I can't see WGU's exact
lesson list or exam, so match each section to your course materials and the topics your course
mentor lists.
1. Database Fundamentals
Key terms
Term Meaning
Data Raw facts
Database An organized collection of related data
Software that creates, manages, and controls access to databases (MySQL,
DBMS
PostgreSQL, Oracle, SQL Server)
Query A request for data or an operation on data
Schema The structure and definition of the database
Metadata Data about data (table names, column types, constraints)
Why use a database instead of files? Less redundancy, better consistency, shared access,
security controls, backup and recovery, and enforced integrity rules.
Types of SQL statements
Category Purpose Examples
DDL (Data Definition) Define structure CREATE, ALTER, DROP, TRUNCATE
DML (Data Manipulation) Change data INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE
DQL (Data Query) Retrieve data SELECT
DCL (Data Control) Permissions GRANT, REVOKE
TCL (Transaction Control) Manage transactions COMMIT, ROLLBACK, SAVEPOINT
OLTP vs OLAP: OLTP handles many small, fast transactions (orders, payments). OLAP
supports analysis of large volumes of historical data (reporting, trends).
2. The Relational Model
Terminology
(Lessons 1 to 7)
This guide covers the standard topics in an introductory database course: database basics, the
relational model, SQL, data modeling, normalization, and transactions. I can't see WGU's exact
lesson list or exam, so match each section to your course materials and the topics your course
mentor lists.
1. Database Fundamentals
Key terms
Term Meaning
Data Raw facts
Database An organized collection of related data
Software that creates, manages, and controls access to databases (MySQL,
DBMS
PostgreSQL, Oracle, SQL Server)
Query A request for data or an operation on data
Schema The structure and definition of the database
Metadata Data about data (table names, column types, constraints)
Why use a database instead of files? Less redundancy, better consistency, shared access,
security controls, backup and recovery, and enforced integrity rules.
Types of SQL statements
Category Purpose Examples
DDL (Data Definition) Define structure CREATE, ALTER, DROP, TRUNCATE
DML (Data Manipulation) Change data INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE
DQL (Data Query) Retrieve data SELECT
DCL (Data Control) Permissions GRANT, REVOKE
TCL (Transaction Control) Manage transactions COMMIT, ROLLBACK, SAVEPOINT
OLTP vs OLAP: OLTP handles many small, fast transactions (orders, payments). OLAP
supports analysis of large volumes of historical data (reporting, trends).
2. The Relational Model
Terminology
