Claude Code Convinced Me To Simplify My SQL JOINs

This article discusses a developer's 20-year habit of structuring SQL JOINs with all filtering logic in the ON clause, mimicking human thought processes. The author explains their preference for telling a 'human story' through SQL, using a supermarket analogy. However, Claude Code persistently suggested moving filters to the WHERE clause for simplicity. The article explores both approaches, noting they are functionally equivalent due to query optimizers, but argues that the WHERE-based approach is more conventional and readable. It's a tech-focused piece on SQL best practices and AI-assisted coding advice.