Summary: From this post you will learn how to use CURSOR statement in SQL. What is Database CURSOR: A SQL Server cursor is a set of T-SQL logic to loop over a predetermined number of rows one at a time. The purpose for the cursor may be to update one row at a time or perform an administrative process such as SQL Server database backups in a sequential manner. SQL Server cursors are used for Development, DBA and ETL processes. Why Use a Cursor in SQL Server: Although using an INSERT , UPDATE or DELETE statement to modify all of the applicable data in one transaction is generally the best way to work with data in SQL Server, a cursor may be needed for: Iterating over data one row at a time. Completing a process in a serial manner such as SQL Server database backups. Updating data across numerous tables for a specific account. Correcting data with a predefined set of data as the input to the cursor. When to Use a SQL Server Cursor: The ...