What Causes SQL Syntax Error 1064 and How to Fix It?

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  • Updated on January 9th, 2025

Summary: Most businesses heavily rely on MySQL for database management for their crucial projects. However, if you run any query with a syntax error in your snippet, it might show an error called “Error 1064.” Most of the time, simple typos, incorrect usage of punctuation, or misuse of reserved keywords trigger this error. To avoid this and a smooth run of your SQL query, it’s important to carefully review your query to avoid syntax issues. In this blog, we elaborate on some ways to resolve the SQL syntax error 1064 issue. But somehow, if your MDF file got corrupted, SQL Database Repair software may assist you. Download Now Purchase Now

What is the Error 1064 Service Error?

Error 1064 in MySQL is a syntax error indicating an error in the SQL query you have used. This kind of error normally represents that the database MySQL could not understand the statement, and that is basically because of the syntax used. The possible list of syntax errors includes:

  • Invalid SQL Statement: Typos or incorrect commands.
  • Incorrect Usage of Reserved Words: Usage of keywords without proper escaping.
  • Incorrect Data Types: Differences between the expected and the actual data types.

How to Fix SQL Syntax Error?

There are quite many of these solutions available, solving the issue with MySQL error 1064. First, we’ll discuss all manual methods one after another, followed by the automatic solution to be resolved easily and swiftly.

Manual Method to Fix SQL Syntax Error 1064

To manually fix the SQL syntax error, follow these steps:

1. Review the SQL query

Review your code thoroughly to avoid such an issue. If you find any line or snippet of query suspicious or incorrect, then review it and correct it. This simple step helps you to identify where to pay attention.

2. Check Syntax Structure

Make sure that the query sticks to SQL command syntax such as SELECT, INSERT, and UPDATE. Confirm whether it is properly formatted. For example:

  • SELECT: `SELECT column1, column2 FROM table WHERE condition;`
  • INSERT: `INSERT INTO table (column1, column2) VALUES (value1, value2);`

3. Verify Punctuation

To avoid issues, always look for missing or misplaced commas, parentheses, or quotation marks. Make sure all SQL keywords are there and in the correct order.

  • Example: In a SELECT statement, separate column names and a comma. Strings need to be double-quoted, and identifiers may need backticks.

4. Escape Reserved Words

To avoid error 1064 happening due to reserved keywords for tables or columns, always use backticks around them. Reserve words are those words that are special to MySQL. Error message code 1064 from MySQL may occur if you use these words.  ALTER, TABLE, SELECT, and many more are examples of reserve keywords.

5. Simplify the query

To avoid this error, always run complex code or query in a simple way or simple query. This is the best way to identify the root cause of the error. Run a simple query and then gradually increase the complexity of the query.

  • For instance, if you have a complicated JOIN statement, try executing one of the SELECT statements separately.

6. Consult Documentation

Check the MySQL documentation for the correct syntax of the command you are using.

7. Test Incrementally

Start adding elements back to a reduced version of the query to determine which addition is causing the error.

8. Use a SQL Formatter:

Use online SQL formatting tools to help you identify. So, the problem is resolved in your query structure.

Follow these steps, and you will systematically identify and correct the syntax error in your SQL query.

Automated Tools for Fixing SQL Syntax Error 1064 in MySQL

If you solve your MySQL error 1064 and create an MDF file. But somehow, your MDF file got corrupted, so SQL Database Repair software may assist you. There are many reasons for SQL database corruption, such as MDF file storage media device corruption, deletion of database accidentally, change in MS SQL Server account, virus in disk driver, header file corruption, etc. The SQL Recovery software resolves all issues in a corrupted database file and repairs the SQL Database from the damaged file.

How to Open an MDF File Without Using SQL Server?

  1. Download and launch the SQL Recovery Software on your desired computer.
  2. After that, click the Open button to add the corrupt MDF file for recovery.
  3. Now, use the browse icon to locate and select the MDF files from your system.
  4. Then, choose the desired recovery mode.
  5. Specify the log file path and click OK to begin the scanning process.
  6. The MDF file will now be displayed in a tree structure. Choose the item from the file you wish to recover.
  7. Lastly, tap the Save button to begin the saving process.
  8. Here, choose the saving mode: either SQL Server Database or SQL Server Compatible Scripts.
  9. Click OK to initiate the recovery process.

Conclusion

Error 1064 is one of the most common problems encountered by SQL developers. Mostly because of syntax errors, obsolete commands, improper data types, lack of data, or any other SQL coding error. To reduce the occurrences of SQL syntax error 1064, the tips provided here, along with the steps followed in this tutorial, will ensure your SQL code works perfectly. Don’t forget to always check for syntax errors and seek help when you need it.

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About The Author:

As a lead technical writer, I know the technical problems faced by office and professional users. So, I decided to share all my technical knowledge through this blog. I love helping you with tough challenges when dealing with technical issues.

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