What is the Difference between SOQL and SOSL in Salesforce

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In Salesforce, we have two query tools: SOQL (Salesforce Object Query Language) and SOSL (Salesforce Object Search Language).

When we work with data and records in Salesforce, we utilize both SOQL and SOSL; however, the use cases and purposes of these two query tools differ.

When working on Salesforce data and records, we commonly use SOQL and SOSL for querying. In SQL, the GET command is used to get the data, and similarly, SOQL helps search data within Salesforce databases, supporting the GET command. SOSL, on the other hand, focuses on keyword-based searches to locate records.

Let’s examine the differences between SOQL and SOSL in Salesforce.

Understand SOQL and SOSL in Salesforce

First, we will understand what SOQL and SOSL are in Salesforce, and then we will examine the differences between these two query tools.

What are the SOQL queries in Salesforce?

In Salesforce, SOQL stands for Salesforce Object Query Language, and it is used to search for specific information within the Salesforce database. SOQL works similarly to SQL’s SELECT command, allowing users to fetch data from objects in a structured manner.

Key features of SOQL

  • SOQL retrieves records from single or multiple objects (if related through relationships).
  • It is generally embedded in Apex classes, triggers, and other Salesforce components to fetch data through code.
  • SOQL enables data filtering based on specific conditions using the WHERE clause.
  • It returns data in the form of lists.

Syntax of SOQL queries:

SELECT <field>
FROM <ObjectName> 
WHERE <condition>

In the above syntax, the SELECT keyword defines which object field you want to navigate. Whenever we enter a SOQL query, it should start with the SELECT keyword.

FROM keyword helps to determine the “object” from which we want to select the field value. By using the WHERE keyword, we define the “condition” of fetching records.

Use Case Example of Salesforce SOQL.

Now, we will execute the real-time example, where we will find accounts with an annual revenue greater than $ 2000. For this, the SOQL query will look like this.

SELECT Id, Name, AnnualRevenue
FROM Account
WHERE AnnualRevenue > 20000