Linq For Dummies

If you’ve asked yourself “Why can’t I develop database and XML queries in a language I already know?”, then Language INtegrated Query, or LINQ, is for you. LINQ For Dummies introduces you to LINQ and the .NET Framework technologies, so you can use LINQ to query any object, any data set, any kind of XML, and SQL Server—no questions asked.
This plain-English guide gives you a thorough overview of LINQ, from understanding the tasks it performs to making LINQ work with both Visual Basic and Visual Studio 2005. It explains the four LINQ providers in the .NET Framework, the easiest ways to go about accessing data, and how to write more efficient applications with less code using LINQ. There’s also clear guidance on combining third-party providers with LINQ to create even more powerful apps. With this single, comprehensive guide, you’ll discover how to:
Use one query language with all Microsoft languages
Examine .NET language extensions and work with extension methods, partial methods, lambda expressions, and query expressions
LINQ to DataSet operators, SQL server operations, XML API, or Active Directory
Deal with databases — download and install the Northwind database, generate Northwind entity classes, and create the Northwind XML mapping file
Create the partial class example, the partial method example, and the database modification example
Use objects with LINQ
Query databases in Visual Basic and C#
As an added bonus, you can visit the companion Web site for LINQ examples in C# and Visual Basic. With LINQ For Dummies, you’ll link up with LINQ in no time and see how you can query almost anything!
Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included as part of eBook file.

John Paul Mueller has written more than 300 articles and 80 books, most recently Mastering Windows Vista Business with Mark Minasi. The author of Ribbon X For Dummies, he has covered everything from programming to operating systems to home security and accessibility.

Introduction.
Part I: An Overview of LINQ.
Chapter 1: Getting to Know LINQ.
Chapter 2: Creating Simple LINQ Queries.
Chapter 3: Considering the .NET Language Extensions.
Chapter 4: Working with LINQ in Visual Basic .NET.
Chapter 5: Working with LINQ in Visual Studio 2005.
Part II: Using Standard LINQ to Technologies.
Chapter 6: LINQ to Object.
Chapter 7: LINQ to DataSet.
Chapter 8: LINQ to SQL Server.
Chapter 9: LINQ to XML.
Part III: Extending LINQ to New Horizons.
Chapter 10: Using LINQ with Office 2007.
Chapter 11: Advanced LINQ to SQL Server.
Chapter 12: LINQ to Active Directory.
Chapter 13: Other LINQ to Strategies.
Part IV: The Part of Tens.
Chapter 14: Ten Ways to Improve LINQ Development.
Chapter 15: Ten Ways to Reduce Application Support Costs.
Chapter 16: Ten LINQ Resources.
Index.