# Data modeling

Pinot works best when the table shape is clear before data lands. Start here to understand the structure that every ingestion and query decision depends on: schema design, table composition, logical-table layout, and how schemas evolve without breaking existing pipelines.

If you need dense JSON config or controller endpoints, jump to the [Reference](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/reference/reference) section instead. This section stays narrative and decision-oriented.

## Start Here

* [Schema and Table Shape](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/build-with-pinot/data-modeling/schema)
* [Logical Tables](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/build-with-pinot/data-modeling/logical-tables)
* [Schema Evolution](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/build-with-pinot/data-modeling/schema-evolution)

## Related Existing Docs

* [Schema](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/architecture-and-concepts/components/table/schema)
* [Table](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/architecture-and-concepts/components/table)
* [Logical Table](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/architecture-and-concepts/components/table/logical-table)
* [Schema Evolution Tutorial](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/tutorials/data-ingestion/schema-evolution)
* [Schema Reference](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/reference/configuration-reference/schema)
* [Table Reference](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/reference/configuration-reference/table)

## What this page covered

This landing page defines the scope of Pinot data modeling and points to the core pages that matter first.

## Next step

Read [Schema and Table Shape](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/build-with-pinot/data-modeling/schema) to lock in the table structure before designing ingestion.

## Related pages

* [Schema and Table Shape](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/build-with-pinot/data-modeling/schema)
* [Logical Tables](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/build-with-pinot/data-modeling/logical-tables)
* [Schema Evolution](https://docs.pinot.apache.org/build-with-pinot/data-modeling/schema-evolution)