Ethan McCue outlines effective PostgreSQL practices for improved database management. Key recommendations include:
- Use UUID primary keys for easier sharing and generation.
- Include
created_at
andupdated_at
for useful record tracking. - Apply
on update restrict, on delete restrict
to foreign keys to prevent unintentional data loss. - Utilize schemas to organize tables better.
- Implement enum tables for flexible value management.
- Name tables in singular form to reflect individual row representation.
- Use concatenated names for join tables in many-to-many relationships.
- Prefer soft deletes with nullable timestamps to avoid permanent data loss.
- Track status changes using a log-like structure with a timestamp.
- Use a special
system_id
for critical rows. - Limit use of views due to complexity in management.
- Leverage JSON in queries for efficient data retrieval.
These strategies collectively enhance PostgreSQL usability and data integrity.
https://mccue.dev/pages/3-11-25-life-altering-postgresql-patterns