This manual uses the following conventions to distinguish elements of text:
Convention | Purpose |
---|---|
UPPERCASE | Represents Transact-SQL syntax, paths, and filenames. |
MIXEDcase | Shows syntax abbreviations. The uppercase portion is required; the lowercase portion is optional. |
small capitals | Represent key names, such as ctrl. |
bold | Represents system procedures, utility programs, commands, and user-entered text. |
italic | Represents database names, table names, column names, index names, and variables. |
monospace | Represents examples, display text, and error messages. |
[brackets] | Identify optional items in syntax. Type only the information within the brackets; do not type the brackets. |
{braces} | Identify required items in syntax. Type only the information within the braces; do not type the braces. |
| (vertical bar) | Means "or" and signifies that you can choose only one of the items within the brackets or braces. |
... (ellipsis) | Indicates that you can repeat the previous syntax item. |