Chapter 1. An Introduction to Database Development
IN THIS CHAPTER
Understanding what a database is
Examining the differences between databases, tables, records, fields, and values
Learning why multiple tables are used in a database
Looking at database objects
Learning a five-step design method
Creating the overall design of a database system
Designing database tables and relationships
Designing input forms
Designing menus
In this chapter, you learn the concepts and terminology of databases and how to design the tables that your forms and reports will use. Finally, you build the actual tables used by this book's Access Auto Auctions example database.
The fundamental concept underlying Access databases is that data is stored in tables. Tables are comprised of rows and columns of data, much like an Excel worksheet. Each table represents a single entity, such as a person or product.
As you work with Access, you'll spend considerable time designing and refining the tables in your Access applications. Table design and implementation are two characteristics that distinguish database development from most other activities you may pursue.
After you understand the basic concepts and terminology, the next important lesson to learn is good database design. Without a good design, you constantly rework your tables, and you may not be able to extract the information you want from your database. Throughout this book, you learn how to use the basic components of Access applications, including queries, forms, ...
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