What's the correct SQL syntax for filtering dates after a specific date in SQL Server?

Data and Databases
1

Hey everyone, I’m stuck on a SQL query. I’m trying to get all the records from my table where the date is on or after April 1, 2010. Here’s what I’ve tried:

SELECT * 
FROM CustomerOrders
WHERE OrderDate >= 2010-04-01;

The OrderDate column has values like 2010-03-04 00:00:00.000.

But it’s not working as expected. I’m pretty sure I’m close, but something’s off. Can anyone point out what I’m doing wrong here? Is there a special way to format dates in SQL Server queries that I’m missing?

Thanks in advance for any help! I’ve been scratching my head over this for a while now.

2

hey there! have you tried putting the date in quotes? like this:

SELECT * 
FROM CustomerOrders
WHERE OrderDate >= '2010-04-01';

SQL Server is usually pretty good with date formats, but sometimes it needs a lil help. how’d that work for ya? lemme know if you need more help!

3

yo dancingbutterfly! ClimbingMonkey’s got the right idea. just wanna add, if you’re ever unsure bout date formats, try the CONVERT function. like this:

SELECT *
FROM CustomerOrders
WHERE OrderDate >= CONVERT(datetime, ‘2010-04-01’)

works like a charm for me. hope it helps!

4

I’d like to add another perspective to this discussion. While the suggestions provided are valid, it’s often beneficial to use parameterized queries for date filtering. This approach not only ensures correct date formatting but also improves query performance and security. Here’s an example:

DECLARE @StartDate DATE = '2010-04-01';

SELECT * 
FROM CustomerOrders
WHERE OrderDate >= @StartDate;

This method allows for easy modification of the date parameter and leverages SQL Server’s query plan caching. It’s particularly useful when incorporating the query into application code or stored procedures. Additionally, it helps prevent SQL injection attacks when user input is involved.