GENERATE_SERIES

Function

Generates a series of values from start to stop with a step (PostgreSQL).

Syntax

GENERATE_SERIES(start, stop, step)

Example

SELECT generate_series(1, 10) as num;

SELECT generate_series(
  '2024-01-01'::date,
  '2024-12-31'::date,
  '1 month'::interval
) as month;

About SQL GENERATE_SERIES

The GENERATE_SERIES keyword belongs to the Function category of SQL statements. Generates a series of values from start to stop with a step (PostgreSQL). Understanding this command is essential for any developer working with relational databases like PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, or SQL Server.

SQL (Structured Query Language) is the standard language for managing and querying relational databases. The GENERATE_SERIES statement is supported across all major database systems, though specific syntax may vary slightly between PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, Oracle, SQL Server, and SQLite. Always consult your database's documentation for vendor-specific features and limitations.

Best practices for using GENERATE_SERIES: always test queries on a development database before running them in production, use parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection, and leverage EXPLAIN to understand query performance. For complex queries, consider using CTEs (Common Table Expressions) to improve readability and maintainability.

Related SQL Keywords

WITH (CTE)CROSS JOINSELECTINTERVAL