Chapter 2. Database Connections and SQL Worksheet

In SQL Developer, one of the most important navigation windows is the Connections window pane. This is the window where we have all our predefined database connections. Once we have added the required connection definitions to the databases, we can quickly launch the connections to the databases and start working. Another important fixed window after making database connections is the SQL Worksheet window. The SQL Worksheet provides a scratch pad for all SQL, PL/SQL, and SQL*Plus statements and commands. You can run individual statements or a collection of commands. You can also run scripts and execute PL/SQL. In essence, you can do all you might do in a command-line interface like SQL*Plus. The SQL Worksheet provides more; it offers code templates, code snippets, assists with code insight and completion, and maintains a history of commands. In this chapter, we will look at the connections window and other features offered in the SQL Worksheet and how to use them. We will use SQL and SQL*Plus commands to illustrate features, using PL/SQL only where needed specifically for a feature.