If you're running off of a client/server database (MS SQL Server, Oracle, etc.) then you can add a "Command" in Crystal that contains the SQL.
In Crystal, connect to your database. Under the name of the connected database there may be an option to "Add Command". If it's there, that's where you put the SQL. If it's not, then the option is not available for your database.
If you're using parameters with your SQL, DO NOT create them in the main report! Create them in the screen where you add your SQL. Then, instead of using the "¶m" or ":param" syntax, use the Crystal parameter syntax ("{?param}") in your SQL. The parameters you create here will automatically be created in the main report. If you create them in the main report first, they don't connect to the command correctly.
-Dell