SELECT

A database stores data in tables. Each table has columns (what is stored) and rows (one record each).

SELECT reads data. You name the columns you want, then the table after FROM:

SELECT name, city
FROM employees;

Use * to get every column:

SELECT * FROM departments;

In interviews: SELECT * is fine for exploring, but name your columns in real answers. It shows you know the schema and it returns less data.

The practice database has three tables: employees, departments and projects. Open Tables beside any question to see them.