Core PostgreSQL knowledge compounds over time. Understanding data types, indexing strategies, query optimization, and transaction behavior provides value regardless of framework, application architecture, or PostgreSQL version.
The Essentials track at Postgres Conference: 2026 is dedicated to core PostgreSQL knowledge. If it's in the documentation or should be, this is where we explore it thoroughly.
This isn't beginner content. Every core concept has complexity worth understanding.
What You'll Learn in the Essentials Track
Data types beyond the basics. PostgreSQL's type system includes arrays, JSONB, ranges, and custom types that solve problems other databases punt to the application layer. Learn how to leverage these types effectively.
Indexing strategies that actually work. B-tree, GIN, GiST, BRIN, and hash indexes each exist for specific reasons. Understand when to use which, how to read EXPLAIN output, and when indexes hurt more than they help.
Query optimization fundamentals. Go beyond adding indexes. Understand the query planner, statistics, joins, and execution strategies to write performant queries from the start.
Transaction isolation in practice. MVCC, isolation levels, and locking behavior aren't just academic concepts. Learn how they affect real applications and how to prevent production incidents.
Documentation deep dives. PostgreSQL's documentation is legendary, but dense. Sessions in this track surface buried knowledge and make it actionable.
Topics in the Essentials Track
- Data types deep dives (JSONB, arrays, ranges, custom types)
- Indexing strategies and trade-offs
- Query optimization and EXPLAIN analysis
- Transaction management and isolation
- Constraints and data integrity patterns
- Configuration and tuning fundamentals
- Backup, restore, and recovery basics
- Security fundamentals
- SQL features that PostgreSQL does better
- And more!
Postgres Conference 2025 Essentials Track Highlights
Check out how presenters tackled complex PostgreSQL topics and get a preview of what to expect in 2026. Listen and watch Essentials track highlights in our Postgres Conference YouTube playlist.
Register for Postgres Conference: 2026
Postgres Conference 2026 takes place April 21-23 in San Jose, California. The theme is Energizing People with Data and Creativity. Understanding the fundamentals gives you the foundation to be creative.
Early bird registration is available now! Purchase your General Admission tickets here.
Call for Postgres Conference 2026 Speakers & Trainers
Want to share your expertise? If you like to dive deep into PostgreSQL fundamentals and can help others understand them, we want to hear from you. The CFP is open across all tracks. Share what you've learned.
CFP closes January 30, 2026. Submit here.