Data retrieval

Data retrieval means obtaining data from a database management system (DBMS), like for example an object-oriented database (ODBMS). In this case, it is considered that data is represented in a structured way, and there is no ambiguity in data.

In order to retrieve the desired data the user presents a set of criteria by a query. Then the database management system selects the demanded data from the database. The retrieved data may be stored in a file, printed, or viewed on the screen.

A query language, like for example Structured Query Language (SQL), is used to prepare the queries. SQL is an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standardized query language developed specifically to write database queries. Each database management system may have its own language, but most are relational.^{[clarification needed]}