When should you look at a sample of the data while learning a new database?

Examining a sample of the data after looking at the table names is a strategic approach to understanding a new database. When you first familiarize yourself with the table names, you get a sense of the structure and the types of data you are dealing with. This prior knowledge allows you to contextualize the sample data you will analyze next.

By looking at the table names first, you can make informed decisions about which tables might contain data relevant to your needs, what relationships exist between different tables, and how to interpret the data once you sample it. This stepwise approach facilitates a more thorough understanding and exploration of the database, ensuring that your analysis is focused and comprehensive.

Sampling data without understanding the structure can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. Thus, it's critical to first understand what tables exist and how they are likely to relate to one another before diving into the detailed analysis of the actual data contained within those tables. This method enhances efficiency and effectiveness in data analysis.