Database Normalization

Database Normalization

Database normalization is the process of organizing the fields and tables of a database to minimize data redundancy and dependency.

First Normal Form (1NF)

• Each table cell must contain a single value.
• Each column must have a unique name.
• No repeating groups or arrays are allowed.
• Each row must have a unique combination of values.

Second Normal Form (2NF)

• A table is in 2NF if it is in 1NF and all non-prime attributes are fully functional dependent on the primary key.
• A non-prime attribute is fully functional dependent on the primary key if its value depends on the primary key.
• 2NF eliminates partial dependencies.

Third Normal Form (3NF)

• A table is in 3NF if it is in 2NF and there are no transitive dependencies.
• A transitive dependency occurs when a non-prime attribute depends on another non-prime attribute.
• 3NF eliminates transitive dependencies.

Key points to remember:

• Normalization helps to:
  • Eliminate data redundancy
  • Reduce data anomalies
  • Improve data integrity
• Denormalization can be used to improve performance in certain situations.

Learn about the process of organizing database fields and tables to minimize data redundancy and dependency. Understand the rules and benefits of First, Second, and Third Normal Forms.