Learn SQL, performance, and data modeling that works in production
The Art of PostgreSQL is a complete, practical system to move from writing queries to designing and operating real data systems. Start with the book to build solid foundations, then go deeper with structured courses, use the lab for hands-on practice, and register to expert-led workshops.
Learn → Practice → Apply → Master
Foundation & reference
Structured learning
Live deep dives
Hands-on practice
New Chapter
This second edition of the book includes a whole new chapter about PostgreSQL Extensions.
Written by the author of the CREATE EXTENSION command!
Second Edition
The Art of PostgreSQL is the new title of “Mastering PostgreSQL in Application Development”, acclaimed one of the very best resources around to learn SQL!
Improved Book Design
Because the first edition of the book has been so well received, the second edition is now available as a redesigned paperback printed format, making it a strong fit for your library!
Start with the foundation
The book is your entry point to a complete PostgreSQL system. Learn the fundamentals, practice with real data, then apply advanced techniques in production.
You get the complete book with practical SQL techniques, real-world examples, and datasets to follow along and experiment.
Start here to build solid foundations, then continue with the Course and Workshop to deepen your expertise.
The online edition includes everything you need to work hands-on: the datasets and all queries are provided as separate SQL files, so you can run, modify, and experiment locally. It also connects directly with the companion lab on GitHub.
Get a physical copy of the book to read, annotate, and keep at hand while you work. The paperback is designed to be a practical companion—something you can open next to your editor or database console as you apply the concepts.
It includes the full digital edition as well, so you can switch seamlessly between reading on screen and working through examples locally. Same content, different format—choose what fits your workflow best.
The book gives you the principles and mental models to write better SQL. The course takes it one step further: it turns those ideas into a structured learning path, with guided modules, hands-on practice, and a clear progression from fundamentals to performance and system design. Instead of connecting the dots on your own, you follow a coherent path designed to build Postgres expertise.
Includes the digital edition of book. Use the lab to practice with the course exercises.
Early access with a pre-sale: content is added progressively. Yearly subscription.
Timeless Database Engineering Principles
The Art of PostgreSQL book remains highly relevant because it focuses on timeless database design principles, performance thinking, and practical SQL techniques that transcend specific version features.
Practical Skills That Still Apply
While written for PostgreSQL 11, the core architecture, query optimization strategies, indexing approaches, and data modeling practices the book teaches continue to apply directly to modern PostgreSQL releases.
The course and workshop already benefit from updates covering current PostgreSQL releases.
Future-Proof Learning Investment
A curated review of new PostgreSQL features is forthcoming to inform a future edition, but this update is not yet scheduled — making the current book an immediately valuable resource for developers who want durable expertise rather than version-specific checklists.
A complete PostgreSQL course packaged in three tiers:
for
different goals and experience levels.
Solid SQL foundations — correctness, clarity, essential patterns.
Performance mastery — query plans, optimization, indexing.
System design — schemas, scaling, production decisions.
Designed for advanced users, a focused 3-hour deep dives with real-time Q&A.
Workshops cover specific topics in depth — window functions, EXPLAIN plans, aggregation patterns, and more. Limited seats, expert instruction, immediate application.
Real datasets, real queries, no setup required
A companion lab to practice everything from the book and courses. Download the datasets, run the queries, experiment freely.
The book is the foundation. Everything else builds on it.
Already have the book? Take the course.
Instead of offering separate products, this is a single learning path designed to build real PostgreSQL expertise. Start with the book to establish strong foundations, then continue with the course to structure and deepen your skills, and move to workshops when you’re ready to tackle advanced topics. Each step builds on the previous one, reinforcing a consistent and practical approach to SQL and system design.
Not convinced yet? Get a FREE chapter including the full Table of Contents!
