Database

Database

1. Fields

   • Numeric
     • Text
       • Date
         • Boolean

2. Tables

   • Records
     • Keyfield

3. Formatting Fields

   • A date can be stored in a number of formats e.g. Medium Date 24-May-11 or Short Date 24/5/11.
     • An input mask defines the format of the data being entered.

4. A relationship is a link between two tables. The links are made using a common field (a field that is contained in both tables)

   • It can reduce the amount of data which has to be stored.
     • It makes the searching and sorting of data more efficient.

5. A wizard is software that helps the user to complete a task, step by step.

   • An information handling package usually provides wizards for complex tasks, such as creating reports, queries and forms.

6. Using Mail Merge

   • To create a customised letter and send it to many people:
     • 1. Create the standard letter with merge fields.
       • 2. Select the data source - such as a table or query - to provide the records for the mail merge.
         • 3. Select the appropriate merge fields from the data source and include them on the letter.
           • 4. Merge the data from the data source onto the letter.
             • 5. Print the personalised letters.

7. < (less than)

   • <= (less than or equal to)
     • > (greater than)
       • >= (greater than or equal to)

8. AND- If all criteria are fulfilled, the record is included in the results.

   • OR- If anyone or more of the criteria are fulfilled, the record is included in the results.
     • NOT- Only records that do not fulfil the criteria are included in the results.

9. Users can add, delete and update records using the table view in the database or through a data capture form. Database software provides a method of designing forms for data capture.