* Shows how to take advantage of MySQL's built-in functions, minimizing the need to process data once it's been retrieved from the database.
* Demonstrates how to write and use advanced and complex queries to cut down on (middleware) application logic, including nested sub-queries and virtual tables (added since MySQL 4.1).
* Points out database design do's and don'ts, including many real-world examples of bad database designs and how the databases were subsequently improved.
* Includes a review of MySQL fundamentals and essential theory, such as naming conventions and connections, for quick reference purposes.