Numbers, Strings, and Dates

Every PL/SQL program uses one or more datatypes. This chapter focuses on some details that you should know when working with data in the form of numbers, strings, and dates. Each recipe in this chapter provides a basic tip for working with these datatypes. From basic string concatenation to more advanced regular expression processing, you’ll learn some techniques for getting things done in an effective manner. You’ll learn about date calculations as well. When you’re done with this chapter, you’ll be ready to move on to the more advanced recipes later in the chapters to follow.