Writing Queries
Zequel includes a full-featured query editor built on Monaco Editor -- the same engine that powers VS Code. It provides a rich editing experience tailored for SQL workflows.
Editor Features
Syntax Highlighting
The editor applies language-aware syntax highlighting for every supported database dialect. Keywords, identifiers, strings, numbers, and comments are all color-coded so you can scan queries at a glance.
Auto-Complete
As you type, the editor suggests table names, column names, SQL keywords, and built-in functions based on the active connection's schema. Press Tab or Enter to accept a suggestion, or Escape to dismiss the menu.
SQL Snippets
Zequel ships with over 30 built-in snippets for each SQL dialect. Type a short prefix and select the snippet from the suggestion list to expand a full statement template. Common snippets include:
sel--SELECT ... FROM ...ins--INSERT INTO ... VALUES ...upd--UPDATE ... SET ... WHERE ...crt--CREATE TABLE ...alt--ALTER TABLE ...
Snippets include tab stops so you can quickly jump between placeholder values with Tab.
Line Numbers
Line numbers are displayed in the left gutter by default, making it easy to reference specific lines when debugging errors or discussing queries.
Minimap
A minimap is rendered on the right side of the editor, giving you a bird's-eye view of longer queries. Click anywhere on the minimap to jump to that section. The minimap can be toggled off in editor settings.
Multi-Tab Support
You can open multiple query tabs to work on several queries at the same time. Each tab maintains its own editor content, cursor position, and result set.
Opening a New Query Tab
There are several ways to open a new tab:
- Click the "+" button in the tab bar above the editor.
- Use the keyboard shortcut Cmd+T (macOS) or Ctrl+T (Windows/Linux).
- Select File > New Query Tab from the application menu.
Tabs are scoped to the active connection. When you switch connections, the tab bar updates to show only the tabs associated with that connection.
Next Steps
- Executing Queries -- Run queries and view results.
- Formatting SQL -- Auto-format your SQL for readability.
- Saved Queries -- Bookmark queries for reuse.