What does a basic SQL query allow you to do?

A basic SQL query primarily allows you to select data from the database. The SELECT statement is used to retrieve data from one or more tables in a database, allowing users to specify the columns and rows they want to view. This query is fundamental to data analysis and reporting, as it enables users to pull specific information necessary for their work.

While inserting, deleting, or updating data are also essential functions within SQL, they fall under different types of SQL actions and require distinct commands. The INSERT command adds new data, the DELETE command removes data, and the UPDATE command modifies existing data. However, at the core of data retrieval and analysis, the ability to select data is what empowers users to analyze and interpret the information contained within a database.