MySQL Convert()

The MySQL CONVERT() function is used to convert a value from one data type to another. This function is similar to the CAST() function and is particularly useful when you want to ensure that a value is represented in a specific data type for performing calculations or comparisons. The syntax for the CONVERT() function is as follows:

CONVERT(expression, data_type)

• expression: The value you want to convert.
• data_type: The target data type to which you want to convert the expression.

Here’s an example of how to use the CONVERT() function to convert a string to an integer:

SELECT CONVERT('123', SIGNED);

In this example, the expression ‘123’ is converted to a signed integer, resulting in the numeric value 123.

You can use the CONVERT() function with various data types, including but not limited to:

• SIGNED or UNSIGNED for integer types.
• CHAR or VARCHAR for character strings.
• DATE, TIME, or DATETIME for date and time values.

For example, you can convert a date string to a DATE data type:

SELECT CONVERT('2023-01-15', DATE);

The CONVERT() function is particularly useful when you need to perform operations that require consistent data types, such as arithmetic calculations, or when you want to ensure that a value has a specific data type for comparison or formatting purposes.

It’s worth noting that in MySQL, you can often implicitly convert values between compatible data types, but the CONVERT() function provides explicit control over the conversion, making your intentions clear in the query.