tdyar/iris-sql

Document IRIS SQL quirks and best practices for writing efficient queries.

27|10|Updated Apr 21, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/intersystems-community/iris-dev --skill tdyar-iris-sql
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: tdyar/iris-sql
Source: https://github.com/intersystems-community/iris-dev/tree/main/skills/iris-sql
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/intersystems-community/iris-dev --skill tdyar-iris-sql

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

IRIS SQL deviates from ANSI SQL in ways that commonly cause bugs and performance issues. This guide consolidates IRIS-specific rules, pitfalls, and best practices into a concise reference to help developers write correct, efficient SQL against IRIS.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Comprehensive IRIS SQL quirks reference: table naming, NULL semantics, SQLCODE semantics, IN clause limits, DDL constraints, and date handling.
  • Practical usage patterns: chunk large IN lists, use %MATCHES and %STARTSWITH for reliable matching, and safe upsert strategies.
  • Real-world scenarios: migrations, data queries, and performance tuning.

Quick Start

Ask your AI to apply IRIS SQL patterns from this guide to your current query task.

Frequently Asked Questions about tdyar/iris-sql

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
Why does my IRIS SQL query fail when using a large IN clause?▼

IRIS SQL imposes limits on IN clause sizes. To write robust IRIS SQL, chunk large IN lists into smaller batches or use alternative matching functions like %MATCHES and %STARTSWITH to avoid query failures.

How do I handle table naming and DDL quirks in IRIS SQL?▼

Handling IRIS SQL DDL quirks requires following explicit table naming rules and constraint patterns. Applying IRIS-specific best practices ensures your schema definitions and migrations generate correct, efficient database structures without errors.

What do SQLCODE errors mean when querying an IRIS database?▼

SQLCODE semantics in IRIS SQL indicate specific query execution statuses. Understanding these IRIS-specific return codes helps developers diagnose query failures, handle NULL semantics properly, and debug data retrieval issues accurately.

Does InterSystems IRIS SQL deviate from standard ANSI SQL syntax?▼

IRIS SQL deviates from ANSI SQL in table naming, NULL semantics, and date handling. Consolidating these IRIS-specific rules and pitfalls helps developers avoid common bugs and performance issues during database migrations.

What is the best way to perform safe upserts in IRIS SQL?▼

Safe upsert strategies in IRIS SQL involve using specific patterns that account for IRIS quirks. Following documented best practices ensures reliable data modifications and efficient performance tuning during real-world query operations.