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.