Inside Microsoft SQL Server 2008: T-SQL Querying

Get the in-depth architectural insights you need to exploit advanced T-SQL querying techniques.
Delve into the internal architecture of T-SQL—and unveil the power of set-based querying—with comprehensive reference and advice from a highly regarded T-SQL expert and members of Microsoft's SQL Server development team. Database developers and administrators will examine the best practices, advanced techniques, sample databases, and code needed to master the programming language built into SQL Server—solving complex problems with real-world solutions.
Understand logical and physical query processing
Learn about set theory, predicate logic, and the relational model
Apply a methodology to optimize query tuning
Analyze the algorithmic complexity of your queries
Solve relational division problems
Use CTEs and ranking functions to simplify and optimize solutions
Aggregate data with various techniques, including tiebreakers, pivoting, histograms, grouping factors, and grouping sets
Use the TOP option to query and modify data
Use the MERGE statement to modify data based on conditional logic
Maintain and query graph structures with the HIERARCHYID datatype, recursive queries, and other solutions
PLUS—Improve your logic and get to the heart of querying problems with logic puzzles
All the book’s code samples will be available for download from the companion Web site.

Itzik Ben-Gan is a principal mentor and a founder of Solid Quality Mentors. A Microsoft MVP for SQL Server since 1999, Itzik teaches and consults internationally on T-SQL querying, programming, and query tuning. He has written numerous articles for SQL SERVER MAGAZINE and MSDN®, and speaks at industry events such as Microsoft Tech
Ed, DevWeek, PASS, and SQL Server Connections.
Lubor Kollar is the group program manager for SQL Server at Microsoft. His team led the development of key enhancements to the relational engine and T-SQL query capabilities in SQL Server 2008.
Dejan Sarka is MCT and MCDBA certified and a Microsoft MVP for SQL Server. He teaches and consults for Solid Quality Mentors, speaks at TechEd and PASS, and develops OLTP, OLAP, and data mining solutions.