v1.0.0 to git:20261019.3364445

---

name: postgresql-psql

description: >-

Comprehensive guide for PostgreSQL psql - the interactive terminal client for

PostgreSQL. Use when connecting to PostgreSQL databases, executing queries,

managing databases/tables, configuring connection options, formatting output,

writing scripts, managing transactions, and using advanced psql features for

database administration and development.

license: PostgreSQL

---

# PostgreSQL psql Skill

PostgreSQL psql (PostgreSQL interactive terminal) is the primary command-line client for interacting with PostgreSQL databases. It provides both interactive query execution and powerful scripting capabilities for database management and administration.

## When to Use This Skill

Use this skill when:

- Connecting to PostgreSQL databases from the command line

- Executing SQL queries interactively

- Writing SQL scripts for automation

- Creating and managing databases and schemas

- Managing database objects (tables, views, indexes, functions)

- Backing up and restoring databases

- Configuring connections and authentication

- Formatting and exporting query results

- Managing transactions and permissions

- Debugging SQL queries

- Automating database administration tasks

- Setting up replication and high availability

- Creating stored procedures and functions

## Core Concepts

### REPL Model

- psql operates as an interactive REPL (Read-Eval-Print Loop)

- Accepts SQL commands and meta-commands (backslash commands)

- Maintains connection state across commands within a session

- Supports command history and editing

### Command Types

- **SQL Commands**: Standard SQL statements (SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, etc.)

- **Meta-Commands**: psql-specific commands prefixed with backslash (e.g., `\dt`, `\d`)

- **Backslash Commands**: Control query output, session variables, and psql behavior

### Connection Model

- Single database connection per session

- Can switch databases without reconnecting

- Connection state includes current database, user, and search path

- Environmental variables and .pgpass for credential management

## Reference Pointers

Detailed command lists, flags, and configuration options are available in [reference.md](./reference.md):

- Connect and Authenticate

- Meta-Commands

- Output and Formatting

- Files, Editor, and Scripting

- Command-Line Flags

- Import and Export

- Backup and Restore

- Performance and Debug Toolbox

- Troubleshooting

## Golden Paths

### 1. Connect using flags

```bash

psql -h localhost -p 5432 -U postgres -d mydb

```

### 2. Connect using URI

```bash

psql postgresql://user:pass@host:5432/dbname?sslmode=require

```

### 3. Inspect a table

```bash

\dt # List all tables

\d table_name # Describe specific table

```

### 4. Export query results to CSV

```bash

\copy (SELECT * FROM users) TO 'users.csv' WITH (FORMAT CSV, HEADER)

```