Data Structure Synthesis

Know the math that underpins everything we do in data.

With storytelling and lots of examples, Doug "The Data Guy" Needham explains the math that creates the foundation for efficient databases, flexible data interchange formats, and robust applications. Data modeling, SQL, and relational database design are covered in detail using global standards as well as many examples in Snowflake. Also covered are dimensional modeling, JSON, XML, data vault, and graph databases.

The math you will learn and be able to apply includes set theory, logic (implicational, conditional, prepositional, and first order predicate), functions, relational algebra and calculus, graph theory, and combinatorics.

There is foundational knowledge required to excel in any discipline. Accountants must know double-entry bookkeeping, doctors must know basic human anatomy, car mechanics must know engine mechanics, and data professionals must know the math behind their profession. This book provides the fundamental knowledge needed to appreciate and excel in data management.

You do not need to be a mathematician (or even like math!) to master the formulas and techniques within these pages that will prepare you for building robust data structures and queries within Agile timeframes.