Detailed Explanation of MySQL Views: Creating and Querying Virtual Tables for Beginners

MySQL views are virtual tables dynamically generated based on SQL query results. They do not store actual data but only retain the query logic. Their core purposes include simplifying repeated queries (such as multi-table joins and conditional filtering), hiding underlying table structures (exposing only necessary fields), and ensuring data security through permission controls. The creation syntax is `CREATE VIEW view_name AS SELECT statement`. For example, a view can be created by joining a student table with a score table. Views are queried similarly to tables, using the `SELECT` operation directly. However, they do not support direct data updates by default; updates must be made indirectly after modifying the underlying tables. Advantages: Reusable query logic, isolation from underlying table complexity, and enhanced data security. Disadvantages: Performance overhead due to dynamically generated results, and potential view invalidation if underlying table structures change. Views are suitable for simplifying complex queries. Beginners should first master creating and querying views. For large datasets or frequently changing table structures, querying tables directly is more efficient.