What are some best practices for converting text-based dates into a standardized format in SQL?
When converting text-based dates into a standardized format in SQL, it is important to ensure consistency and accuracy in the date format across all records. One common approach is to use the SQL CONVERT function to convert the text-based dates into a standard date format that is recognized by SQL. This can help with sorting, filtering, and comparing dates in queries. ```sql -- Assuming the text-based date is stored in a column named 'text_date' in a table named 'dates_table' -- Convert text-based dates in 'MM/DD/YYYY' format to standard 'YYYY-MM-DD' format using CONVERT function UPDATE dates_table SET text_date = CONVERT(DATE, text_date, 101) ```