DuckDB is a modern, open-source analytical query engine designed for fast, in-process SQL analytics. It runs locally without a server, reads Parquet files natively, and provides query plan visibility through EXPLAIN — making it ideal for learning storage and optimization concepts without infrastructure overhead.

A query execution plan shows the step-by-step strategy a query engine uses to retrieve your data — including scan operations, filter application, join methods, and aggregations. In Module 3, you will use EXPLAIN to view execution plans, interpret them conceptually, and diagnose where queries slow down.

Both Parquet and ORC are columnar file formats designed for analytics. Parquet is more widely adopted in cloud and open-source ecosystems (Spark, Hive, DuckDB), while ORC is optimized for Hive-based environments. This course covers both formats and helps you understand when to use each.

You will learn column pruning (reading only needed columns), filter pushdown (applying filters early), partitioning (organizing data for faster scans), data skipping (avoiding irrelevant data blocks), and aggregation optimization. Module 4 includes before-vs-after comparisons so you can measure the real performance impact of each technique.

Data Analysts who want to understand query performance, junior Data Engineers building storage foundations, BI Professionals moving into platform or performance roles, and SQL Developers who want to go beyond syntax to understand execution internals. If slow queries frustrate you, this course is for you.

Storage and query optimization are foundational skills for Data Engineering, Analytics Engineering, BI Development, Database Engineering, and Performance Engineering roles.

Basic computer literacy is sufficient. SQL is taught from fundamentals in Module 1. No prior experience with DuckDB, Parquet, or query optimization is required. Familiarity with basic SELECT statements will help you move faster but is not mandatory.

Yes. Upon completing all graded assessments and the final course assessment, you will earn a Coursera Course Certificate from Edureka that you can add to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV.

To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.

When you purchase a Certificate you get access to all course materials, including graded assignments. Upon completing the course, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.