The primary purpose of ij is to allow the execution of Derby SQL statements interactively or via scripts. Since SQL statements can be quite long ij uses the semicolon to mark the end of statement or command. All statements must be terminated with a semicolon. ij uses properties, listed later in this guide, to simplify its use. ij also recognizes specialized commands that extends its functionality such as the ability to create and test cursors and prepared statements, transaction control and more. For complete information about ij commands, see ij commands and errors reference later in the Tools Guide.