Introduction to Access Database Management

Study Notes

Introduction to Access

Access database objects include tables, forms, queries, reports, macros, and modules.
Understanding the difference between working in storage (data on disk) and memory (data currently being processed) is crucial.
Database saving, compacting, and backing up procedures are essential.
Filters and sorting are valuable tools for data management.
Access is useful when Excel's capabilities are inadequate.
Creating, editing, and deleting records are fundamental database tasks.

Tables and Queries

Table design and creation are key.
Data types and their appropriate usage (page 139) need attention.
Primary and foreign keys define relationships between tables; this is vital to data integrity.
Understanding field properties is essential.
Importing data from Excel and CSV files is a practical skill.
Relationships between tables (refer to database design notes).
Referential integrity ensures data consistency across related tables.
Creating single-table and multi-table select queries are important.
Query criteria for various data types (page 169) apply to query construction.

Using Queries

Creating calculated fields and expressions using the appropriate formulas is necessary.
Formatting calculated results for clarity.
Using the Totals Row and Totals Queries is efficient for summarization.
Understanding functions and the Expression Builder is essential.

Professional Forms and Reports

Designing and creating forms, including split and multiple-item forms is a crucial skill.
Creating reports including grouping, sorting, and calculated fields.
Different views of data (forms, reports, and queries) are essential to understand.

Data Validation and Analysis

Enriching data validation using field properties.
Utilizing input masks for data entry control.
Applying parameter queries.
Date arithmetic and handling null values are important.

Action and Specialized Queries

Understanding update, append, make table, and delete queries.
Using find duplicates and find unmatched records queries to identify and fix issues in data.

Advanced Forms and Reports

Working with forms featuring subforms.
Utilizing advanced form controls for complex tasks.
Understanding different report and form sections in an Access database is essential.

Fine-tuning the Database

Normalization principles enhance database structure efficiency.
Understanding the Database Documenter and Database Splitter.
Understanding how to create an executable form of the database.
Encrypting and password protecting a database is a security imperative.

Additional Notes

Database planning and design are critical.
Prepare to design tables detailing fields, data types, sizes, and relationships.
Be prepared to answer questions about database design and relationships.
Refer to additional notes and resources on Blackboard.

Description

Explore the fundamental concepts of Access database management, including objects such as tables, queries, and forms. Understand the importance of data integrity through primary and foreign keys, as well as practical skills like importing data. This quiz will enhance your knowledge of Access and its functionality compared to Excel.