SQL Server Interview Topic 23: Import, Export, and Data Movement
This topic checks whether you can handle data that comes from outside the application. Many real projects import Excel, CSV, or old system data.
You should be able to explain import, export, validation, staging tables, and safe data movement.
Q150. What is data import in SQL Server?
Quick interview answer:
Data import means bringing data into SQL Server from another source, such as Excel, CSV, or an old database. Before importing into final tables, we should validate the data so wrong records do not enter the main system.
Study in detail: Data Migration - This lesson explains moving data safely.
Q151. What is a staging table?
Quick interview answer:
A staging table is a temporary or intermediate table used to hold imported data before it is cleaned and moved to final tables. It helps us validate data, find errors, and avoid directly damaging production tables.
Study in detail: Data Migration - This article explains practical migration steps.
Q152. What checks should you do before importing data?
Quick interview answer:
Check required fields, duplicate values, invalid dates, wrong data types, missing foreign keys, and unexpected extra columns. For example, student import should validate admission number, class, mobile number, and date of birth.
Study in detail: Constraints and NULL Handling - These lessons explain data rules.
Q153. What is data export?
Quick interview answer:
Data export means taking data out of SQL Server for reports, backups, sharing, or integration. Before exporting, we should apply proper filters and avoid exposing sensitive columns unnecessarily.
Study in detail: Security and Batch Jobs - These lessons explain safe data handling.
Q154. How do you handle failed records during import?
Quick interview answer:
Store failed records separately with error reasons, fix the data, and retry only the corrected records. Do not silently ignore failed records because users need to know what was not imported.
Study in detail: Troubleshooting - This article explains practical issue handling.
For import questions, mention validation before insert. This shows you care about data quality.