Need help with DECODE function

Question

Hello,
I am trying to use default within the decode function and every time I get a missing expression. I have searched everywhere and cant figure out what I'm doing wrong. Thanks
select decode (request_id,0,'No files found', DEFAULT)

Answer 1

Hi,
Welcome to the forum!
When you use a default value, the last argument to DECODE is the actual value you want as a default.
For example:
SELECT       ename
,       deptno
,       DECODE ( deptno
             , 30     , 'Sales'
                  , 'All others'     -- Default value
              )                 AS dname
FROM      scott.emp
ORDER BY  ename
;Output:
ENAME          DEPTNO DNAME
ADAMS              20 All others
ALLEN              30 Sales
BLAKE              30 Sales
CLARK              10 All others
FORD               20 All others
JAMES              30 Sales
JONES              20 All others
KING               10 All others
MARTIN             30 Sales
MILLER             10 All others
SCOTT              20 All others
SMITH              20 All others
TURNER             30 Sales
WARD               30 Sales 
I hope this answers your question.
If not, post a little sample data (CREATE TABLE and INSERT statements, relevant columns only) for all tables involved, and also post the results you want from that data.
Explain, using specific examples, how you get those results from that data.
If you can show the problem using commonly available tables (such as those in the scott schema) then you don't need to post any sample data; just the results and the explanation.
Always say which version of Oracle you're using (e.g., 11.2.0.2.0).
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