In PostgreSQL, showing tables involves listing all the tables present in a particular database. This is essential for database administrators and developers to get an overview of the database structure.

Using psql Command Line

psql Command:

To list all tables in the current database, you can use the \dt command within the psql command line interface.

\dt

Querying Information Schema

Information Schema:

You can also list tables by querying the information_schema.tables view, which provides detailed information about tables in the database.


SELECT table_name FROM information_schema.tables WHERE table_schema = 'public';

Using pgAdmin

pgAdmin Interface:

pgAdmin provides a graphical interface to view tables. Navigate to the database and expand the schemas to see the list of tables under the 'public' schema.

Checking Table Details

Table Details:

To view details about a specific table, you can use the \d table_name command in the psql command line.


\d your_table_name

Listing Tables by Owner

Filter by Owner:

To list tables owned by a specific user, modify the information schema query to filter by owner.


SELECT table_name FROM information_schema.tables WHERE table_schema = 'public' AND table_catalog = 'your_database' AND table_owner = 'your_user';

Using SQL Shell (psql)

SQL Shell Commands:

The SQL shell provides a straightforward way to interact with the database and execute commands to show tables.

\l

Viewing Table Constraints

Constraints Overview:

To view constraints on a table, use the \d+ table_name command, which provides additional details including constraints.


\d+ your_table_name

Listing Tables with Specific Patterns

Pattern Matching:

Use pattern matching in SQL to list tables with specific naming conventions using the LIKE operator.


SELECT table_name FROM information_schema.tables WHERE table_schema = 'public' AND table_name LIKE 'prefix_%';