How do I do a simple SQL query?

Excuse me, could you please elaborate on how one might go about executing a basic SQL query? I'm new to this and could use some guidance. Specifically, I'm interested in understanding the steps involved, from connecting to a database to crafting the query itself, and finally, executing it to retrieve the desired data. Would you mind walking me through this process step-by-step? I'm eager to learn and would greatly appreciate your assistance.