dbForge SQL Complete Express

Pros

• Intelligent code completion with smart filtering
• Parameter information for functions enhances accuracy
• Customizable SQL formatting to adhere to coding standards
• Context-sensitive keyword suggestions
• Supports a broad range of SQL Server versions and integration with Visual Studio 2013

Cons

• Limited support for some customization features
• May require a learning curve for new users to utilize full potential

Enhanced Coding Efficiency with dbForge SQL Complete Express

dbForge SQL Complete Express is a comprehensive add-in for SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and Visual Studio, created with the objective to streamline and enhance the efficiency of writing T-SQL code for database developers. Free to use, this tool extends the basic functionalities of native Microsoft T-SQL Intellisense® by offering a suite of advanced features for auto-completion and code formatting.

Intelligent Code Completion

One of the strongest features of dbForge SQL Complete Express is its intelligent code completion. This capability can expedite the coding process by providing smart filtering, which suggests relevant keywords and objects as you type. Moreover, it offers quick parameter info for functions, showing you function parameters right as you’re writing them, thereby reducing errors and saving time.

Customizable SQL Formatting

Another notable feature is the customizable SQL formatting. Although it comes with partial support, it allows developers to shape the formatting to meet their specific preferences or follow team coding standards, which ensures consistency across different codebases and helps in maintaining readability of the code written by various team members.

Context-sensitive Assistance

The tool excels in providing context-sensitive suggestions for keyword completion, though with partial support. This means the add-in is smart enough to understand the context of your query and provide you with the most relevant suggestions. Moreover, dbForge SQL Complete Express supports determining the current database or schema which you are working on, which prevents cross-database errors and aids in writing more accurate scripts.

Usability Features

An unobtrusive semi-transparent suggestion box does not obstruct your coding view, which is a subtle yet effective usability feature. It also enables you to execute the current statement directly from the coding interface, facilitating quick tests and checks of SQL segments without needing to run the entire script.

Compatibility

Ensuring broad compatibility, dbForge SQL Complete Express supports a wide range of SQL Server versions including SQL Server 2000, 2005, 2008, 2012, 2014, SQL Azure, and SQL Server Compact edition. The latest version of the tool has also been updated to integrate seamlessly with Visual Studio 2013, allowing .NET developers to maximize productivity within their familiar coding environment.

Conclusion

In essence, dbForge SQL Complete Express presents itself as an essential add-in for database development in SSMS and Visual Studio. Its rich set of features aimed at improving the efficiency of writing T-SQL, partnered with its cost-free availability, makes this tool a valuable asset for developers in different settings - from professional development teams to academic use in universities.

Pros

• Intelligent code completion with smart filtering
• Parameter information for functions enhances accuracy
• Customizable SQL formatting to adhere to coding standards
• Context-sensitive keyword suggestions
• Supports a broad range of SQL Server versions and integration with Visual Studio 2013

Cons

• Limited support for some customization features
• May require a learning curve for new users to utilize full potential