How I format SQL before reviewing a query

SQL is easier to review when clauses and joins are on separate lines instead of one long string.

The SQL Prettify tool helps me inspect the input and output without writing a one-off script first.

The simple idea

SQL is easier to review when clauses and joins are on separate lines instead of one long string.

I use it to answer one focused question at a time, then I review the result before using it anywhere important.

Step 1: Paste the SQL query

Paste the SQL query.

Step 2: Format it with readable indentation

Format it with readable indentation.

Step 3: Review selected columns

Review selected columns.

Step 4: Check joins and join conditions

Check joins and join conditions.

Step 5: Check WHERE filters before running updates or deletes

Check WHERE filters before running updates or deletes.

Step 6: Review ORDER BY and LIMIT

Review ORDER BY and LIMIT.

Step 7: Formatting does not make a query safe; it only makes it easier to inspect

Formatting does not make a query safe; it only makes it easier to inspect.

My checklist

Before I trust the result, I check:

• Paste the SQL query.
• Format it with readable indentation.
• Review selected columns.
• Check joins and join conditions.
• Check WHERE filters before running updates or deletes.
• Review ORDER BY and LIMIT.
• Formatting does not make a query safe; it only makes it easier to inspect.

The tool makes the mechanical part faster. The decision still belongs to me: is this result correct, safe, and appropriate for the real task?