What you'll learn

Working with data across files and formats often means choosing between heavyweight database setups or limited tools that can't handle serious analytical work. Without the right environment, even basic questions about your data take longer than they should. DuckDB offers a faster path - a fast, local SQL engine that reads directly from files and scales from quick explorations to repeatable workflows. In this course, Query and Modify Data with DuckDB, you'll gain the ability to query, shape, and manage data end-to-end using DuckDB. First, you'll explore how to write SQL queries that filter, aggregate, join, and reshape data - using functions, CTEs, and expressions like CASE and COALESCE to answer real analytical questions. Next, you'll discover how to build and maintain DuckDB objects, including tables loaded from files, scalar and table macros for reusable logic, views for standardizing common queries, and simple DML patterns for inserting and replacing data. Finally, you'll learn how to export results to common formats and apply performance and correctness habits like EXPLAIN, scan limiting, and row count sanity checks to keep your analysis trustworthy and efficient. When you're finished with this course, you'll have the skills and knowledge of DuckDB needed to run reliable, repeatable analytical workflows directly from your local environment.