Relational Model and ER Mapping

Start with relational concepts

The flashcard deck Relational Database Concepts is a starting point for the vocabulary on this page. It includes tables, records and fields, along with primary keys, foreign keys and relationships. Use the cards to check which terms you can explain before moving on to mapping.

For another set of questions, the flashcards in Databases 2: Database schemas and design include database state, transactions and concurrency control protocols. These offer a different way to work with the database concepts in the collection.

Move from ER models to relations

From ER to the relational model asks how to translate an ER model into a relational schema. After working through the basic terms, use this deck to practice thinking through a translation.

The mind maps on mapping the E-R model into the relational model can then help you follow the ideas visually. They cover strong and weak entity mapping and attributes, including primary key and foreign key attributes. Another mind map traces the move from a conceptual data model toward a relational schema and SQL constructs.

Check your understanding

The Final IT quiz includes statements about representing E-R relationships in the relational model and referential integrity. Try it after the flashcards and mind maps. Return to the relevant map when a question points to a concept you want to study again, then use the flashcards to practice the terms.

Explore the unit

This topic is one section of the database design and entity-relationship modeling unit in Databases and data science. Its resources give you several ways to approach the unit through relational concepts, entity mapping and schemas. Pick a resource that fits what you want to work on next.