The correct answer is C. An exact match is not possible in a SELECT statement. CompTIA DataSys+ documentation explains that wildcards are used in SQL primarily within the WHERE clause of a SELECT statement to enable pattern matching rather than exact value matching. Wildcards such as % and _ are commonly used with the LIKE operator to search for partial strings or variable patterns in character-based data.
In practical database usage, wildcards allow analysts and administrators to retrieve records when the full or exact value is unknown or unnecessary. For example, searching for all patient records with last names starting with “Mac%” or all email addresses ending in “@example.com” requires pattern-based matching. In these cases, an exact match is explicitly not required, which is the core purpose of wildcards in SQL queries.
Option A and D incorrectly reference the CREATE statement. Wildcards are not relevant to CREATE statements, which are used for defining database objects such as tables, indexes, or views. These statements require explicit definitions and do not support wildcard-based matching logic. Option B is also incorrect because a SELECT statement does not always require an exact match; this is precisely why wildcards exist and are heavily used in querying operations.
CompTIA DataSys+ emphasizes that understanding query flexibility is essential for data retrieval and reporting. Wildcards enhance query usability and efficiency by allowing broader result sets without complex logic or multiple conditions. They are particularly valuable in analytical, reporting, and troubleshooting scenarios where partial data exploration is required.
Therefore, the best description of the function of a wildcard in the WHERE clause is that it allows queries where an exact match is not required, making option C the correct and fully aligned answer according to CompTIA DataSys+ principles.
