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ERROR: column “col” does not exist

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PostgreSQL column does not exist

ERROR: column “col” does not exist

PostgreSQL Column Does Not Exist – Error Explained

When you run a query in PostgreSQL and see:

ERROR: column "col" does not exist
It means PostgreSQL cannot find the column you are referencing in your SQL query. The PostgreSQL column does not exist error is one of the most common mistakes developers and DBAs face.
Why Does This Error Happen?
The error usually occurs due to:
  • The column was never created.

  • Typo or misspelling in the column name.

  • Case sensitivity (PostgreSQL converts unquoted names to lowercase).

  • Wrong table or schema being queried.

  • The column was dropped or renamed.

Fixes for PostgreSQL Column Does Not Exist Error
1. Check available columns in the table
\d table_name
2. Correct spelling mistakes

Double-check the column name in your query.

3. Handle case sensitivity

If the column was created with quotes, you must use them:

SELECT "ColName" FROM table_name;
4. Add the missing column

If the column doesn’t exist, create it:

ALTER TABLE table_name ADD COLUMN col TEXT;
5. Check schema and table name

Make sure you are querying the correct table in the right schema:

SELECT col FROM schema_name.table_name
6. Restore dropped or renamed columns

If a column was removed accidentally, restore from backups or add it again with proper data type.

Conclusion

 At Learnomate Technologies, we’re here to support you every step of the way with top-notch training in PostgreSQL DBA and more.

For more detailed insights and tutorials, do check out our YouTube channelwww.youtube.com/@learnomate, where we regularly share practical tips and deep dives into essential database topics. And if you’re serious about mastering PostgreSQL DBA, head over to our website for our full training program: learnomate.org/training/postgresql-training/.

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