Understanding SQLc and the Error Message

Oct 13, 2025 by talynt.org 43 views

Introduction

When working with SQLc, a popular tool for generating Go code from SQL queries, you may encounter an error message that reads "error parsing queries: no queries contained in paths ./db/queries". This error can be frustrating, especially if you're new to SQLc or Go development. In this article, we'll delve into the possible causes of this error and provide step-by-step solutions to help you resolve it.

Understanding SQLc and the Error Message

SQLc is a command-line tool that generates Go code from SQL queries. It's designed to simplify the process of interacting with databases in Go applications. The tool uses a configuration file, typically named sqlc.yaml, to define the database engine, queries, and schema.

The error message "error parsing queries: no queries contained in paths ./db/queries" indicates that SQLc is unable to find any SQL query files in the specified directory (./db/queries). This directory is where you're expected to place your SQL query files, such as account.sql.

Possible Causes of the Error

Before we dive into the solutions, let's explore the possible causes of this error:

Incorrect Directory Path: Double-check that the directory path specified in the queries field of your sqlc.yaml file is correct. Make sure the path is relative to the project root directory.
Missing Query Files: Verify that you have created the required SQL query files in the specified directory. Ensure that the file names match the ones mentioned in the sqlc.yaml file.
File Name or Extension Issues: SQLc expects SQL query files to have a .sql extension. If your file names don't match this convention, you may encounter the error.
SQLc Configuration Issues: Review your sqlc.yaml file to ensure that the queries field is correctly configured.

Step-by-Step Solutions

Solution 1: Verify the Directory Path

Open your sqlc.yaml file and check the queries field.
Ensure that the directory path is correct and relative to the project root directory.
If the path is incorrect, update it to the correct location.

Solution 2: Create Required Query Files

Create the required SQL query files in the specified directory (./db/queries).
Ensure that the file names match the ones mentioned in the sqlc.yaml file.
Verify that the file names have a .sql extension.

Solution 3: Check File Name and Extension

Review your SQL query files to ensure that they have a .sql extension.
If the file names don't match the convention, rename them to follow the .sql extension.

Solution 4: Review SQLc Configuration

Open your sqlc.yaml file and review the queries field.
Ensure that the queries field is correctly configured.
If the configuration is incorrect, update it to the correct settings.

Example Use Case

Let's assume you have a sqlc.yaml file with the following configuration:

sql:
  - engine: "postgresql"
    queries: "db/queries"
    schema: "db/schema.sql"

In this example, the queries field specifies the directory path db/queries. You should create the required SQL query files in this directory, such as account.sql.

Conclusion

The "error parsing queries: no queries contained in paths ./db/queries" error can be frustrating, but it's often caused by a simple misconfiguration or missing query files. By following the step-by-step solutions outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve the issue and successfully use SQLc to generate Go code from your SQL queries.

Additional Resources

SQLc documentation: https://sqlc.dev/
Go documentation: https://golang.org/doc/
PostgreSQL documentation: https://www.postgresql.org/docs/
SQLc Error Parsing Queries: No Queries Contained in Paths ./db/queries - Q&A ====================================================================

Introduction

In our previous article, we explored the possible causes and step-by-step solutions to resolve the "error parsing queries: no queries contained in paths ./db/queries" error when using SQLc. However, we understand that sometimes, a simple explanation or solution may not be enough. That's why we've put together a Q&A section to address some of the most frequently asked questions related to this error.

Q&A

Q: What is the correct directory path for the queries field in sqlc.yaml?

A: The directory path for the queries field in sqlc.yaml should be relative to the project root directory. For example, if your project structure is as follows:

project/
  db/
    queries/
      account.sql
  sqlc.yaml

Your sqlc.yaml file should contain the following configuration:

sql:
  - engine: "postgresql"
    queries: "db/queries"
    schema: "db/schema.sql"

Q: What if I have multiple query files in the specified directory?

A: SQLc can handle multiple query files in the specified directory. Simply create the required SQL query files in the db/queries directory, and SQLc will generate the corresponding Go code.

Q: Can I use absolute paths in the queries field?

A: Yes, you can use absolute paths in the queries field. However, we recommend using relative paths to avoid potential issues with file system permissions or directory structure changes.

Q: What if I'm using a different database engine, such as MySQL or SQLite?

A: SQLc supports multiple database engines, including MySQL and SQLite. Simply update the engine field in your sqlc.yaml file to match the engine you're using.

Q: Can I use SQLc with a different Go version?

A: SQLc is designed to work with Go versions 1.14 and later. If you're using an earlier version of Go, you may need to upgrade to a compatible version.

Q: How do I troubleshoot SQLc errors?

A: When troubleshooting SQLc errors, start by reviewing your sqlc.yaml file and ensuring that the configuration is correct. Next, check the SQL query files in the db/queries directory for any syntax errors or issues. If you're still experiencing problems, try running SQLc with the --verbose flag to enable debug logging.

Q: Can I use SQLc with a different code generator, such as sql-migrate?

A: SQLc is designed to work with the sqlc code generator. If you're using a different code generator, such as sql-migrate, you may need to modify your sqlc.yaml file or use a different configuration file.

Conclusion

We hope this Q&A section has provided additional insight and guidance on resolving the "error parsing queries: no queries contained in paths ./db/queries" error when using SQLc. Remember to always review your sqlc.yaml file and SQL query files carefully to ensure that the configuration is correct and the files are properly formatted.

Additional Resources

SQLc documentation: https://sqlc.dev/
Go documentation: https://golang.org/doc/
PostgreSQL documentation: https://www.postgresql.org/docs/