SQL TRUNCATE

TRUNCATE is a DDL (Data Definition Language) command used to remove all rows from a table quickly, while keeping the table structure (columns, constraints, etc.). It deletes the data but does not delete the table itself.

Why TRUNCATE TABLE is Considered DDL
  • Operation Method: TRUNCATE typically deallocates entire data pages or extents used by the table, rather than deleting rows one by one.
  • Minimal Logging: Because it deallocates data pages, it records minimal information in the transaction log
  • Permissions: Executing TRUNCATE TABLE usually requires ALTER or DROP permissions on the table, which are DDL-related privileges, whereas DELETE only requires DELETE permission.


Important Points:
   • Removes all records from the table
   • Table structure remains
   • Faster than DELETE
   • Cannot use WHERE condition
   • Resets auto-increment value

TRUNCATE TABLE table_name;

TRUNCATE TABLE Orders;

Now the table becomes empty, but the structure remains.

Short Definition
TRUNCATE is a DDL command used to delete all rows from a table while keeping the table structure intact.