How to learn the programming mindset

[Semidevil]

My current job requires me to use SQL on a daily basis. it's not just calling columns and joining tables, but there are a lot of programming involved. I.e. Setting variables, parameters, stored procs, loops, looking up tables and columns within specific ranges etc etc

I have no programming background and my issue is 1) Not being able to understand the syntax of existing code, and 2) Having trouble with creating new queries that involves variables and more complex queries

I bought a beginners book and I understand the commands of select, groups, joins, case etc etc but the programming part is still difficult.

What do you suggest is the best way to learn and improve that aspect in sql?

 

[Spydermag68]

Practice is the best teacher. You can read books and tutorials from the Internet.

 

[maluckey]

Practice is the best teacher. You can read books and tutorials from the Internet.

Second the above!

And read "Clean Code: A Handbook of Agile Software Craftsmanship" (If you haven't already done so). It's a solid way to begin thinking about good ways to code. It saved my life, and got me to think about my incurred technical debt in a more holistic and involved way.