Alternate Methods for Formatting SQL Code in SSMS

• SSMS is a graphical tool developed by Microsoft specifically for managing and interacting with Microsoft SQL Server databases.
• It provides a user-friendly interface for writing, executing, and debugging Transact-SQL (T-SQL) statements, which is the query language used in SQL Server.

Formatting SQL Code:

• Formatting refers to the process of arranging and structuring your SQL code in a consistent and readable way. This improves code readability, maintainability, and collaboration.
• Well-formatted code is easier to understand for both yourself and others, making it simpler to identify errors and modify the code in the future.

Formatting Methods in SSMS:

SSMS offers a couple of built-in methods for formatting your SQL code:

1. Manual Formatting:

   • You can manually adjust indentation, spacing, and line breaks using the spacebar, Tab key, and Enter key.
   • While effective for small code snippets, this method can become tedious for larger queries.

2. Format T-SQL Code Option:

   • This option applies a predefined formatting style to your code, improving its visual organization.

Limitations of SSMS Formatting:

• The built-in formatting might not always match your preferred style or specific coding standards.
• It might not be customizable to the same degree as third-party formatting extensions.

Alternative Formatting Options:

• Third-party extensions: Several add-ins and extensions for SSMS offer more advanced formatting capabilities, including customization options and integration with code linters for enhanced code quality.
• Azure Data Studio: If you're using a more recent version of SQL Server, consider using Azure Data Studio, a free, cross-platform tool from Microsoft that offers built-in automatic formatting with keyboard shortcuts (Ctrl+Shift+P followed by "Format Document").

Choosing the Right Formatting Approach:

• For basic formatting needs, the built-in "Format T-SQL Code" option might suffice.
• For more control, customization, or integration with linters, consider third-party extensions.
• If you're already using Azure Data Studio, its automatic formatting functionality provides a convenient solution.

SELECT CustomerID,
       CompanyName
FROM Customers
WHERE Country = 'USA'  AND City = 'New York';

SELECT
    CustomerID,
    CompanyName
FROM Customers
WHERE Country = 'USA'
  AND City = 'New York';

As you can see, the formatted code improves readability by:

• Adding proper indentation to visually distinguish clauses (SELECT, FROM, WHERE).
• Aligning keywords (SELECT, FROM, WHERE) for better structure.
• Using line breaks to separate clauses for clarity.

Additional Formatting Considerations:

• Indentation Style: SSMS offers options for block (indenting each clause) or smart indentation (adapting indentation based on nesting). Choose the style that best suits your preference.
• Tab Size: You can adjust the number of spaces used for each indentation level to match your coding standards.

Alternate Methods for Formatting SQL Code in SSMS

Third-party Extensions:

Several add-ins and extensions enhance SSMS's functionality, including formatting. Some popular options include:

• ApexSQL Refactor: This extension provides a wide range of features, including highly customizable SQL formatting options, code refactoring, and database object management.
• Redgate SQL Prompt: Offers code completion, formatting, parameterization, and other productivity tools for T-SQL development.
• SQL Complete: Another extension focusing on code completion, formatting, and object management, with customizable formatting profiles.

These extensions typically integrate with SSMS's menus or offer keyboard shortcuts for quick formatting. They often provide:

• More Formatting Options: Control indentation styles (block, smart, or hybrid), line wrapping, spacing around operators and keywords, and case sensitivity.
• Customizable Profiles: Create and save your preferred formatting rules to ensure consistent style across your codebase.
• Integration with Linters: Some extensions might integrate with T-SQL linters to highlight potential syntax or style issues alongside formatting.

Code Editors with SQL Support:

If you prefer a different code editor for development, consider options with built-in SQL support and formatting capabilities. Some popular choices include:

• Visual Studio Code: With extensions like "SQL Tools" or "mssql," VSCode offers syntax highlighting, code completion, and formatting options for T-SQL.
• Sublime Text: Various plugins like "Sublime Text SQL" or "Package Control" can add SQL language support and formatting features.
• Atom: Packages like "atom-sql" or "sql-format" provide T-SQL language features, including formatting options.

These editors often offer:

• Integrated Formatting: Format your code on-the-fly as you type or with dedicated commands.
• Customizable Syntax Highlighting: Improve code readability with color-coded keywords, functions, and data types.
• Linter Integration: Similar to some SSMS extensions, some editors might allow integration with linters for comprehensive code checks.

Choosing the Right Method:

• For basic formatting needs: SSMS's built-in option might suffice.
• For more control and customization: Consider third-party extensions for SSMS.
• For a flexible development environment: Explore code editors with SQL support and formatting plugins.
• If you're already using Azure Data Studio: Its built-in automatic formatting is a convenient choice.