SELECT * FROM (SELECT *, DENSE_RANK() OVER (ORDER BY salary DESC) AS rk FROM employees) t WHERE rk = 3. **Full rows**: Returns all columns. **Salary only**: SELECT DISTINCT salary ... WHERE rk = 3. **Ties**: All employees with 3rd-highest (DENSE_RANK) vs....
This medium-level SQL question appears frequently in data engineering interviews at companies like Incedo. While less common, it tests deeper understanding that distinguishes strong candidates.
Break this problem into components. Identify the core trade-offs involved, then walk the interviewer through your reasoning step by step. Demonstrate awareness of edge cases and production considerations - this is what separates good answers from great ones.
SELECT FROM (SELECT , DENSE_RANK() OVER (ORDER BY salary DESC) AS rk FROM employees) t WHERE rk = 3. Full rows: Returns all columns. Salary only: SELECT DISTINCT salary ... WHERE rk = 3. Ties: All employees with 3rd-highest (DENSE_RANK) vs. one arbitrary (ROW_NUMBER).
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Analyze My Answer — FreeAccording to DataEngPrep.tech, this is one of the most frequently asked SQL interview questions, reported at 1 company. DataEngPrep.tech maintains a curated database of 1,863+ real data engineering interview questions across 7 categories, verified by industry professionals.