Learn Access Now! Chapter 3 Previous Section in Chapter 4 Chapter 5

Chapter 4: Creating Another Database

(This is section 4 of 4 in this chapter)

Summary

Although Access provides many different tools (such as Wizards), you don't need to use these tools to create a great database. Instead, you can manually create and refine tables that will work just as well. And as you work with Access in this way, you will become more aware of its capabilities and how to use them.

In this chapter, you have manually developed and refined a database. Before you move on to Chapter 5, make sure you understand the following key concepts:

Designing a table requires some planning. You need to examine what data you are going to manage, as well as the data's characteristics.
Using a table design form makes designing your table easier.
When you manually create a table, you use the Design view window to specify your layout.
As you input fields in the Design view window, you may need to change the data types and properties which Access presets.
The process of refining your table layout is iterative in nature. It involves working alternately in both the Datasheet and Design view windows, repeatedly switching from one window to the other until your design is correct.
As you work in the Datasheet, you should look for ways to improve the layout of your table. Switch to the Design view window to make your changes, and then back to the Datasheet to test those changes.

In Chapter 5, you will learn more about what Access can do. Specifically, you will learn how you can sort and filter the data in your table.

Learn Access Now! Chapter 3 Previous Section in Chapter 4 Chapter 5