This paper examines the effect of grading approaches for SQL query formulation on students’ learning strategies. The way that students are graded in a subject has a significant impact on their learning approach, and it is crucial that graded tasks are carefully designed and implemented to inculcate a deep learning experience. An online examination system is described and evaluated. Categories and Subject Descriptors H. INFORMATION SYSTEMS H.2. DATABASE MANAGEMENT H.2.3 Languages Subject descriptor: Query languages General Terms Management, Measurement, Performance, Design, Reliability, Experimentation, Security, Human Factors. Keywords online examination, databases, SQL, SQL query formulation, learning approaches.