Inventory deprecated TEXT, NTEXT and IMAGE columns, convert to MAX types, move small values in row, and measure logging and space costs.
ANSI_NULLS Puzzle and NULL in SQL Server: SQL in Sixty Seconds #052
This ANSI_NULLS puzzle starts with two queries that look alike, and only one returns a row. The tests here explain the NULL logic behind IN and NOT IN, show what SET ANSI_NULLS OFF still does on SQL Server 2025, and give a safer pattern for real queries.
Debug Button in Older SSMS: SQL in Sixty Seconds #020
The Debug button in older SSMS could be mistaken for Execute, and the debugger is gone from current versions. This page keeps the 2012 episode and tests four ways to debug T-SQL without it on SQL Server 2025: parse only, error line numbers, progress messages and the OUTPUT clause.
Deprecated Features and Breaking Changes: Plan Your Upgrade
Breaking Changes are only one of four kinds of change that an upgrade brings. This guest post by Nakul Vachhrajani explains the four kinds, how to find deprecated feature use with Extended Events and the Deprecated Features counters, and a checklist for planning the upgrade.
Replacing Old Syntax in Legacy T-SQL
Modernize legacy T-SQL by replacing old joins, TEXT columns, and fragile RAISERROR forms with clear, tested alternatives.
What Changes When You Move to a New Major Version
A New Major Version of SQL Server changes the engine while database compatibility, query plans, and deprecated features need separate review.
SQL SERVER – 2005 – Use Always Outer Join Clause instead of (*= and =*)
My friend’s queries failed in SQL Server 2005 because they used *= and =* for joins. Always use the LEFT or RIGHT outer join clause instead.