SQL is a query language that's used to retrieve data based on the rules defined.Benefits of learning SQL: employability, high paying jobs in data analytics, data science, software engineering, and database management.Beginner level SQL concepts like SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE can be learned in a few days.Intermediate level SQL concepts take around 1 to 2 years to master properly. One can learn SQL functions, JOINs, Subqueries, and CTEs at this level.Advanced level topics take years to learn. Specialised knowledge of database performance and stored procedures is required.Effective learning strategies for SQL include reading books,taking courses, practicing real-world scenarios, and getting involved with communities.For programming beginners, it can take around two weeks to learn basic SQL skills.If you have prior programming experience, learning SQL could be much faster.It generally takes around 1 year of dedicated work to have advanced SQL skills.Don't be too hard on yourself, remember it takes time to master SQL.