A curated list of the tools, references, and inspirations I keep coming back to.
🔧 Tools & Utilities
- Diagrams.net — Where I sketch and refine most of my architectures.
- Statistics Parser — The quickest way to make sense of SQL Server stats.
- ColumnScore — Should you use a columnstore index? Less often than you think.
- Paste The Plan — Indispensable for sharing and discussing query plans.
- SQL Server Kit — A goldmine of useful SQL Server links and scripts.
📚 References & Learning
- Microsoft Docs — The starting point for anything in the Microsoft ecosystem.
- Brent Ozar — The most authoritative voice in the SQL Server community; I admire both his expertise and professionalism.
- Erland Sommarskog — His “Small Collection of Large Articles” is essential reading for serious SQL Server work. Bonus points for the bold, minimal style.
- O’Reilly – T-SQL Querying — The SQL Server “Bible.”
- HackerRank SQL — A great way to sharpen SQL skills through practice.
- Pluralsight — Still one of the best learning platforms for IT.
- Daily Coding Problem — Small, regular challenges to exercise in problem-solving.
- O’Reilly – Design Patterns — The classic foundation for object-oriented design.
- The Mythical Man-Month — A timeless perspective on software projects.
💼 Freelancing & Work
- Fiscozen — A reliable partner for freelancers in Italy (commercialista).
🎥 Media & Inspiration
- XKCD — Always the right mix of humor and insight.
- Technology Connections — Deep dives into everyday tech, with a spark of curiosity.
- Cathode Ray Dude — Vintage electronics explained with precision and passion.
- Linus Tech Tips — Famous for sharp, professional, and entertaining tech coverage.
- Posy Music — Simply breathtaking music and visuals.
- USCSB — “Honey, wake up, USCSB dropped another video.”