Format SQL in SQL Server Management Studio

In SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), there is no built-in functionality for automatic SQL formatting. However, you can format SQL queries using the following methods:

1. Manual Formatting

You can manually format your SQL by following standard indentation and capitalization practices:

• Indent nested statements.
• Write SQL keywords in uppercase.
• Break lines logically for better readability.

Example:

SELECT 
    Column1, 
    Column2, 
    Column3
FROM 
    TableName
WHERE 
    Column1 = 'Value'
ORDER BY 
    Column2;

2. Use the Built-in “Format Document” Feature

While SSMS doesn’t have a full SQL formatter, you can use Ctrl + K, Ctrl + D to clean up basic indentation in some cases. This does not improve keyword capitalization or detailed formatting.

3. Use Third-Party Extensions

Install an external SQL formatting tool that integrates with SSMS for more advanced formatting.

Popular Extensions:

• SSMS Boost:
  • Adds many features, including SQL formatting.
  • Download SSMS Boost
• SQL Prompt by Redgate:
  • Premium tool for SQL formatting, code suggestions, and refactoring.
  • Download SQL Prompt
• Poor Man’s T-SQL Formatter:
  • Free, open-source SQL formatting tool.
  • Online and Plugin Download

4. Use Online SQL Formatters

If you don’t want to install additional tools, you can format SQL using online services:

• SQLFormat (sqlformat.org)
• Instant SQL Formatter (sqlinjection.net/formatter)

Steps:

1. Copy your SQL query.
2. Paste it into the online formatter.
3. Format it and copy the formatted query back into SSMS.

5. Custom Keyboard Shortcut for Formatting

If you use a third-party extension like Poor Man’s T-SQL Formatter, you can map it to a keyboard shortcut:

1. Go to Tools > Options > Environment > Keyboard.
2. Search for the formatting command provided by the extension (e.g., “FormatSQL” for Poor Man’s T-SQL Formatter).
3. Assign a shortcut like Ctrl + K, Ctrl + F.

• Built-in Options: Basic indentation with Ctrl + K, Ctrl + D.
• Third-Party Extensions: Tools like SQL Prompt or SSMS Boost provide advanced formatting.
• Online Tools: Use online formatters for one-off tasks.
• Manual: Format queries by following SQL best practices.