This disclosure concerns systems and methods for restoring data. In one example, a method for restoring a database to a particular state begins when a query is sent to a backup server requesting a list of all backup versions for the database. Next, the list of all backup versions is received from the backup server. Then, the time t0 at which the most recent backup version in the list was created is determined. Next, a point in time t2 subsequent to time t0 is identified. Finally, a command set that, when executed, functions to restore the database to the state that existed at time t2 is automatically formulated.