What should I learn first about databases?
SQL vs NoSQL. Understand the difference between relational and non-relational databases, their strengths, and how to choose. This is the foundation for all database decisions in your app.
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More FAQs in A Roadmap to Mastering Databases for Node.js Backend Development
In order: SQL vs NoSQL, MongoDB with Mongoose, indexes and performance, schema design for queries, SQL basics, migrations, and production practices like connection pooling and error handling. Each step builds real backend database expertise.
After you can do basic CRUD with MongoDB and Mongoose. Indexes are about performance as data grows, so you need to understand querying first to know which fields to index.
Yes, at least the basics. SQL knowledge is valuable for interviews and broader understanding. Even if your app uses MongoDB, many companies use SQL, and SQL concepts (joins, indexes, normalization) transfer to NoSQL thinking.
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