A view is a virtual table that is created based on the result of a query. It allows users to see a subset of the data in a table without actually modifying the data.
Before understanding a view, it helps to imagine how we normally use a database.
Often, we don’t want to see an entire table—we only need a specific portion of the data, maybe a few selected columns or rows. Instead of writing the same query again and again, SQL gives us a neat solution called a view.
A view in SQL is like a virtual table created from the result of a query. It looks and behaves almost like a real table, but the data inside it does not live separately—SQL pulls the data from underlying tables whenever you use that view.
I often explain it to students like this:
A view is similar to a shortcut on your desktop. The shortcut is not the real file, but it gives you quick access to it.
Likewise, a view is not the real table; it simply shows you a filtered or formatted version of the actual data.
Key points to understand about a view:
It does not store data physically (most views are virtual).
It is created using a SELECT query.
It helps simplify complex queries.
It allows you to hide sensitive columns and show only what is needed.
It can make reports and repeated tasks much easier.
Simple Example
Suppose you have a table of employees with many columns—salary, address, department, age, phone number, etc.
But your HR team only needs to see the name, department, and salary.
Why are views useful?
Views help you:
Reduce the complexity of long queries
Improve security by hiding columns
Maintain consistency in reports
Give different users different filtered versions of the same table
In short,
A view is a virtual, customizable window into your data—showing only what you need, in the way you want.
You can create a view like this: