CTE in MySQL - Examples & AI Generator

Common Table Expressions (CTEs) simplify complex queries in MySQL, but the syntax and limitations often slow down even experienced SQL developers. Knowing the right structure for CTE MySQL syntax is essential—especially for multi-step analytics or recursive operations. With AI2sql, you turn natural language into accurate, production-ready CTE queries in 10 seconds, no coding required. Whether you’re switching databases or tackling business analysis, AI2sql lets you skip memorization and focus on results.

CTE Syntax in MySQL

How to Write a Basic CTE

In MySQL (version 8.0+), use the WITH clause before your main query:

WITH cte_name AS (
  SELECT ...
)
SELECT ... FROM cte_name;

Multiple CTEs: Separate by commas after the WITH keyword.
MySQL does not support materialized CTEs—references must be within the statement.
Recursive CTEs are supported via WITH RECURSIVE.

CTE Examples You Can Generate Instantly

Top Customers by Order Count

WITH customer_orders AS (
  SELECT customer_id, COUNT(*) AS order_count
  FROM orders
  GROUP BY customer_id
)
SELECT c.customer_id, c.order_count, customers.name
FROM customer_orders c
JOIN customers ON c.customer_id = customers.id
ORDER BY c.order_count DESC
LIMIT 10;

Active Products in the Last 30 Days

WITH recent_sales AS (
  SELECT product_id
  FROM sales
  WHERE sale_date >= CURDATE() - INTERVAL 30 DAY
)
SELECT DISTINCT products.*
FROM products
JOIN recent_sales ON products.id = recent_sales.product_id;

Recursive CTE: Order Hierarchy

WITH RECURSIVE order_chain AS (
  SELECT id, parent_order_id, order_date
  FROM orders
  WHERE parent_order_id IS NULL
  UNION ALL
  SELECT o.id, o.parent_order_id, o.order_date
  FROM orders o
  INNER JOIN order_chain oc ON o.parent_order_id = oc.id
)
SELECT * FROM order_chain;

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Prefer learning step-by-step? Learn CTE

FAQ: CTE in MySQL

Q: Does MySQL support recursive CTEs?
A: Yes, since version 8.0, use WITH RECURSIVE for recursive queries.
Q: How are CTEs different from subqueries in MySQL?
A: CTEs improve query readability and reusability, especially with complex or multi-step logic.
Q: Can I chain multiple CTEs in a MySQL statement?
A: Yes, separate each CTE with a comma after the WITH keyword.

Conclusion

Writing CTEs in MySQL can be daunting—especially when juggling syntax variations across platforms. With AI2sql, convert business problems into optimized CTEs instantly, and leave manual coding behind. Join a global community shaving hours off their workflow. Generate Your First Query Now.