sql - Storing fixed number of items in mysql -
i storing draw numbers (1-60) in fixed values , fixed order.
one draw has 4 numbers
has 6 numbers
, 2 numbers
my idea separate each draw type in separate sql table. question is, optimal store numbers in single column separated delimiter....
id(int) | numbers(varchar)
or store each number in separate column instead?
id(int) | num1(tinyint) | num2(tinyint) | num3(tinyint) | num4(tinyint)
i won't needing search numbers when they're stored.
if don't ever need search them separately or retrieve them separately, 1 opaque "blob" database perspective , won't violating principle of atomicity , 1nf storing them single filed.
but, because that's case now, doesn't mean won't change in future. @ least use second option. also, allow dbms enforce integrity of domain , ensure these numbers , strings.
however, future-proof data, i'd go further , use following structure:
in addition treating numbers in uniform way , avoiding many nulls, it'll allow vary max. number of numbers if ever becomes necessary. suspect querying easier in structure.
btw, if there no (other fields)
, draw cannot exist without @ least 1 number, can dispense draw table altogether , use draw_number.
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