SQL Server Interview Question #85

What do MIN() and MAX() do?

Aggregate Functions, GROUP BY & Window Functions Mid-Level Intermediate

Detailed Explanation

MIN returns the smallest value and MAX returns the largest value in the qualifying set. They work with numeric, date/time, and many comparable character data types.

They are commonly used for lowest/highest prices, earliest/latest dates, minimum/maximum identifiers, and grouped reporting.

Code Example

SELECT CategoryId,
       MIN(Price) AS LowestPrice,
       MAX(Price) AS HighestPrice
FROM dbo.Products
GROUP BY CategoryId;