Procedural Data Manipulation Language (DML) and non-procedural DML are two different types of DMLs that are used to manipulate data in a database.
Procedural DML
Procedural DMLs (Data Manipulation Language) are a type of programming language that allows users to specify a series of actions to be taken on a database. These actions are often executed in a specific order, or “procedure,” hence the name. OR
In simple words, Procedural DML is a type of DML that requires the user to specify how to manipulate the data. It requires the user to specify the steps that the system should take to manipulate the data. Examples of procedural DMLs include languages such as COBOL, FORTRAN, and PL/SQL.
- It is a type of DML where we specify what data we want and how we get it.
- A procedural language is difficult to learn.
- Difficult to debug.
- Requires a large number of procedural instructions.
- Generally, it is used by professional programmers.
- File-oriented concept based.
Non-procedural DML
Non-procedural DMLs, on the other hand, do not require users to specify a specific series of actions to be taken on a database. Instead, they allow users to specify the desired result of a query, and the database system itself is responsible for determining the most efficient way to achieve that result. Non-procedural DMLs are often easier for users to learn and use, as they do not require a detailed understanding of how the database system works. OR,
Non-procedural DML is a type of DML that does not require the user to specify how to manipulate the data. It allows the user to specify what data they want, but not how to retrieve it. Non-procedural DMLs are often easier to use than procedural DMLs, because they do not require the user to have as much knowledge about the structure of the database. Examples of non-procedural DMLs include SQL and QBE (Query By Example).
- This type of DML specifies only what data we want, no need to mention how to get it.
- Easy to learn
- This language only requires a few non-procedural instructions.
- It can be used by both professional programmers and non-technical users.
- Database-oriented concept used in it.
In general, procedural DMLs offer more control and flexibility to the user, while non-procedural DMLs are simpler and easier to use.
Procedural DML vs Non-procedural DML
| Aspect | Procedural DML | Non-Procedural DML |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Requires the user to specify what data to retrieve and how to retrieve it. | Requires the user to specify only what data to retrieve, not how to retrieve it. |
| User Involvement | The user needs to know the structure of the database and the algorithm for fetching the data. | The user doesn’t need to know the database structure or the fetching algorithm. |
| Complexity | Generally more complex due to the need for detailed instructions. | Simpler for the user, as it focuses only on the desired outcome. |
| Flexibility | More flexible, as it allows for the optimization of data retrieval processes. | Less flexible in terms of how data is retrieved but easier to use. |
| Examples | SQL with procedural extensions (e.g., PL/SQL for Oracle, T-SQL for Microsoft SQL Server). | Standard SQL queries, where the focus is on the ‘what,’ not the ‘how.’ |
| Use Cases | Suitable for complex operations where the path to the data is as important as the data itself. | Best for straightforward data retrieval where the emphasis is on the information, not the process. |
| Execution Speed | Can be faster for complex queries where the process is optimized by the programmer. | May rely on the DBMS’s optimization, which can vary in efficiency. |
| Ease of Learning/Use | Requires a deeper understanding of database internals and programming concepts. | Easier for beginners and those not familiar with the intricacies of database structures. |