MySQL Table Paradox: How do you Fix a Table that Both Exists and Doesn\'t Exist?

Schrödinger's MySQL Table: An Existential Enigma

In the realm of database management, MySQL tables can exhibit a paradoxical existence. As you have encountered, the enigma of tables seemingly both existing and non-existent simultaneously can pose a frustrating challenge. Let's delve into the underlying issue and explore a potential solution.

When facing the perplexing error "Table already exists" yet "DROP TABLE" returns "Unknown table," it's likely that there is a discrepancy between the table definition file (.frm) and the data file (.idb or .MYI). This mismatch typically occurs when one of these files is missing from the database directory.

To resolve this issue, verify the presence of both the .frm and data files for the affected table. If using InnoDB, ensure both .frm and .ibd files exist, while for MYISAM tables, it should be .frm, .MYI, and .MYD.

If you encounter orphaned files (missing .frm or data files), manually deleting them can eliminate the conflict. This action would allow MySQL to recreate the necessary files upon subsequent table operations, effectively resolving the Schrödinger-like existence of your table.

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