SQL Essentials: REMAINDER Function Explained

Overview

The REMAINDER function is a mathematical tool that calculates the remainder when one number is divided by another. In simple terms, it answers the question, "What's left over after dividing these two numbers?"

When you divide two numbers, the result is often a whole number (the quotient) with a remaining amount. The REMAINDER function helps you find this remaining value, which can be useful in various business scenarios.

Understanding the Syntax

The function is structured as follows:

REMAINDER(dividend, divisor)

• dividend: The number being divided.
  
• divisor: The number that divides the dividend.
  

and is computed as: dividend - (divisor * X) where X is the integer nearest (dividend/divisor)