Data basics

Null

A marker for a value that is missing or unknown.

  • Data basics

Definition

A marker for a value that is missing or unknown. A null is not zero and not empty text. Comparing a value with a null gives an unknown result. To find nulls in SQL, use IS NULL.

Also called

Missing value

Example

If a discount field is null, the discount is unknown. Treating it as zero would understate the true discount.

For your role

Choose your role to see what this term means in your work.

Why it matters

Missing values can quietly distort averages and counts.

Where it is used

Data quality checks and report errors.