Start with a row check
Run a small `SELECT * ... LIMIT 10` first so you verify columns and data shape.
Build joins incrementally
Add one table at a time and confirm row counts before adding the next join.
Name your outputs
Use clear aliases like `AS total_revenue` so your results are easy to reason about.
Use CTEs for clarity
Break complex logic into steps with `WITH` blocks to debug each part quickly.
Validate with counts
Compare `COUNT(*)` before/after filters and joins to catch accidental row multiplication.
Order your final output
Use explicit `ORDER BY` for deterministic grading and predictable result review.