Syntax Error

What This Error Means

A syntax error occurs when SQL is unable to parse a query due to incorrect or missing syntax. In this case, the ORDER BY clause is trying to sort by a column that does not exist in the table.

Why It Happens

This error occurs when a developer tries to use a column name in the ORDER BY clause that does not exist in the table or is misspelled. It can also happen if the column is aliased with an incorrect name.

How to Fix It

1. 1To fix this error, make sure to check the column names in the table and use the correct column name in the ORDER BY clause. Also, double-check for any typos in the column name.

Example Code Solution

SELECT * FROM employees ORDER BY last_name DESC;

SELECT * FROM employees ORDER BY first_name DESC;