Functions and Operators (1/30)
What are functions and operators in MySQL, and how are they different?
    MySQL Functions vs. Operators — Definitions and Key Differences

    Functions and operators are core components of MySQL expressions, used to manipulate, evaluate, and transform data.

    1. What Are MySQL Functions?
    • Functions are **built-in routines** that take input values (arguments) and return a result.
    • They use the syntax: **FUNCTION_NAME(arg1, arg2, ...)**.
    • Functions can be used in SELECT, WHERE, GROUP BY, ORDER BY, HAVING, and JOIN conditions.
    • Categories include string, numeric, date/time, aggregate, control-flow, JSON, and more.
    Examples of Functions
    2. What Are MySQL Operators?
    • Operators are **symbols or keywords** used to perform calculations, comparisons, or logical evaluations.
    • Operators work between operands (e.g., `value1 operator value2`).
    • Types include arithmetic, comparison, logical, bitwise, and pattern-matching operators.
    Examples of Operators
    3. Key Differences Between Functions and Operators
    • **Syntax:** Functions use parentheses; operators use symbols or keywords.
    • **Operation style:** Functions execute routines; operators evaluate expressions.
    • **Complexity:** Functions handle advanced processing; operators perform simpler evaluations.
    • **Arguments:** Functions accept multiple inputs; operators typically act on two operands.

    In summary, functions are callable routines used for data transformation, while operators are symbolic mechanisms used for calculations and comparisons within expressions.