SQL and non-SQL databases

Term

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Definition

SQL databases store data in related tables queried with Structured Query Language; non-SQL (NoSQL) databases store data as documents, key-value pairs or graphs.

Example: Use NoSQL for flexible, unstructured data.

Found in: syllabus, school notes.

Where you'll use it in the test

Syllabus area: Y12 Programming for the Web.

Question types it can appear in

Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.

Where it has appeared in the paper

Programming for the Web (Part A). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.

How to use it

A model sentence

General advice, built from the definition and example above

“SQL databases store data in related tables queried with Structured Query Language; non-SQL (NoSQL) databases store data as documents, key-value pairs or graphs.” Then apply it: Use NoSQL for flexible, unstructured data.

In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.

Command words used with it

General advice

No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.

Official worked answer

2025 HSC Q9 (1 mark): ORM and SQL (1 mark): official criteria and sample answer

Criteria

1: Correctly matches each characteristic to the appropriate approach.

Sample answer

(1) ORM only. (2) Both ORM and SQL. (3) ORM only.

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Go deeper

Flashcard: SQL and non-SQL databases in Programming for the Web (Year 12) · study that set
Memorise: Web development system: front end, back end, databases
Full term page: every question, note and marking comment for SQL and non-SQL databases

Check yourself

Explain “SQL and non-SQL databases” in one sentence, give an example, and name a question type that could test it.

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