What is a SQL query?

A SQL query specifically refers to a request for data or information from a database. SQL, which stands for Structured Query Language, is the standard programming language used to communicate with relational databases. When you write a SQL query, you are essentially instructing the database to perform specific actions, such as retrieving data, updating records, or deleting entries.

The power of a SQL query lies in its ability to filter and manipulate large data sets efficiently, allowing users to extract precisely the information they need based on specified criteria. This capability is integral for data analysis, as it enables analysts to derive insights from structured data stored within databases.

The other options, while related to data and databases, do not accurately define what a SQL query is. A programming language used for data analysis includes not just SQL, but also languages like Python and R, which offer broader analytical capabilities. A data storage system refers to how data is retained and organized, but it does not define how data is accessed or queried. An analytic method for big data might involve various techniques and technologies tailored for large-scale data processing but does not encapsulate the specific function of executing queries on relational databases.