Active record vs SQL

[eluser]Eric Cope[/eluser]
I use the Active Record method because it auto-escapes my input data, it is easier for me to read, and it remembers how to word the SQL statement (I forget because I actively use too many languages). As mentioned above, it is also database-independent.

I am not an expert at SQL, so its easier for me to use AR. If you are an expert at SQL, then I would recommend using SQL directly. Thats the beauty of CodeIgniter, it does not force you to use one method or another, it gives you options and choices.