objects within a database

objects within a database

1. Tables

   • Store the data itself

2. Queries

   • Used to answer questions about the data. can extract and display records which match certain criteria
   • Queries answer questions about your data
   • Can be used to view, alter and analyse data from one or more tables in a database
   • can be used as the source of records in forms or reports
   • only the required data is displayed
   • can be saved for future use
   • in a company database staff can use a quiery to find out customers in Scotland who bought something in the last month
   • criteria
     • wildcard symbols and maths operations can be used
       • for example: or, and, >(greater than), <(less than),between.
       • criteria can be combined
         • >25<50
       • wildcards can be used:
         • matches any number of characters or none
         • matches exactly one character

3. Reports

   • Used to format the output of data from tables or queries in a user friendly way - mainly for printing

4. Forms

   • used to input and/or output data in a user friendly way - for on-screen use.
   • Why use forms?
     • easily created using wizards
     • can be both output and input data records
     • allow records to be presented in a user friendly way
     • text can be enhanced and additional text added
     • allow command buttons can be added
     • can be edited by a form editor
   • best approach create a basic form using wizard then modify it
   • you can view your data in a form and you can also add records, modify records and delete records
     • when you move off the record the changes are made automatically to the table
       • BE CAREFUL WHEN DELETING RECORDS