Write Clean SQL: Tools That Format Your Queries for You

#sql #formatter

Writing SQL is one thing—reading it six months later is another. That’s why formatters exist. These tools help devs automatically structure SQL queries for better readability and team consistency.

In this post, you'll get a snapshot of how SQL formatting works and see a few solid tools in action.

How Formatters Improve SQL

Here’s what a formatter can fix:

SELECT id,name,salary FROM employees WHERE salary>5000;

After formatting:

SELECT
    id,
    name,
    salary
FROM
    employees
WHERE
    salary > 5000;

This makes it easier to understand, review, and maintain.

Formatter Tools for Developers

DbVisualizer

GUI client with formatting built in—ideal for DB admins and app developers working across multiple databases.

SQL Pretty Printer

Online formatting tool. Paste code, adjust settings, format—done. Handy but less efficient for daily use.

sql-formatter (npm)

Script-friendly for Node.js developers. Add to CI/CD or editor workflows for automated formatting.

FAQ

Can formatters catch SQL errors?

No. They clean up layout but don’t validate syntax.

Is there a formatter extension for VS Code?

Yes—try “SQL Formatter” or integrate sql-formatter directly.

Do formatters affect performance?

Not at runtime—they only change code layout, not logic.

What’s the difference between a beautifier and a formatter?

Nothing major. The terms are interchangeable in SQL contexts.

Conclusion

SQL formatters help you maintain readable, team-friendly queries without the headache. If you want to streamline code reviews and reduce clutter, give one of these tools a try.

Read the full guide SQL Formatter: Definition and Best Tools.