Objects within a database

Objects within a database

1. Tables

   • Stores 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.
   • Criteria
     • Wildcards
       • Examples are, wildcards can be used: * (matches any number of characters or none) ? (matches exactly one character)
     • Maths operators
       • Examples can include: OR, AND, > (greater than), <(less than), BETWEEN....AND..... (can be numbers or dates)
     • Wildcard symbols and math operators can be used.

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 an on-screen use.
   • Easily created using 'Wizards'.
   • Forms can be used to both input and output data records.
   • Allow records to be presented in a user friendly way.
   • Text can be enhanced and additional text added.
   • Allow command buttons to be added.
   • Can be edited using a form editor.
   • The best approach is to create a basic form using wizard and then modify it as needed.
   • You can view data, add data, modify data, and delete data. But when you go to delete data it will ask if you are sure that you want to delete it, because when it is deleted it is gone forever.