max() is an iso standard function. But you need to think relationally to express exactly which maximum you're looking for, that's true. I can see wanting the la

max() is an iso standard function. But you need to think relationally to express exactly which maximum you're looking for, that's true. I can see wanting the language to do that for you, but that would be extremely limiting, since every problem seeking the "maximum" isn't remotely similar. Imagine a request for fewer tools in a toolbox. It might take time to learn where they are located, but they are all in the box for a reason. There's a certain point in learning SQL where you stop thinking about your work in rows and columns and you start thinking in tables. When that happens, you'll easily write good code with very little thinking. Give yourself time. Also look into dynamic SQL if you're concerned with repetition. There's no reason SQL should be overly so.