SQL Query Explainer

SQL Tools

Break a query into clauses with a plain-English explanation of each.

Runs entirely in your browser โ€” nothing is uploaded

Features

  • Splits the statement into SELECT, FROM, JOIN, WHERE, GROUP BY and friends.
  • Explains each clause in plain English.
  • Lists the tables, columns and joins involved.
  • Warns about SELECT *, missing WHERE on UPDATE/DELETE and cartesian joins.

How to use the SQL Query Explainer

  1. 1Paste the query you want to understand.
  2. 2Read the clause-by-clause walkthrough.
  3. 3Check the warnings before you run it in production.

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as EXPLAIN in my database?

No. Database EXPLAIN shows the execution plan using live statistics. This is a static, readable explanation of what the SQL says.