What type of query is most commonly used to select and display data from one or more tables?

The most commonly used query to select and display data from one or more tables is the select query. This type of query allows users to extract specific data by specifying the columns and conditions of the data they wish to view. For example, in a database, a select query can retrieve all employees from a specific department or show sales figures for a particular time period.

The select query is fundamental in database management systems because it allows users to interact with data in a meaningful way, turning complex datasets into understandable information. This capability is essential for reports, analysis, and decision-making processes in various business environments.

The other types of queries have different purposes: data-definition queries are used to create or modify database structures, action queries perform operations like updating or deleting records, and parameter queries prompt users for input to filter results dynamically. While all these queries serve important roles, the select query is the primary means of viewing data.