title: How can I set a counter column value in MySQL?
body: <p>I have a table with a "SortID" column that is numbered using consecutive numbers. Whenever a row is deleted, it leaves a gap. Is there a way using pure SQL to update the rows with their row number? Something like this:</p>
  
  <pre><code>UPDATE tbl SET SortID={rowindex} ORDER BY SortID
  </code></pre>
  
  <p>(I realize this isn't valid SQL, that's why I'm asking for help)</p>
  
  <p>This should set the first row to #1, the second row to #2... etc. Is this possible using SQL? Please forgive the poorly worded question, I'm not really sure the best way to ask this. :)</p>