Microsoft Access Database Software

What is a Database? A database is a collection of records and files that are organized for a particular purpose. The term database describes a collection of data organized in a manner that allows access, retrieval, and use of that data.

How is a database different from word processing and spreadsheet software? In Access you store a single copy of the data in the tables you design. The tables store only basic data. You use a query, form, or report to define the details you might want in a report or table.

7 Main Components of a database in Access 2007: Tables Forms Reports Queries Pages Macros Modules

Tables Use tables to store database information. An object you define and use to store data. Each table contains information about a single subject such as students, employers, schools.

Forms Use forms to enter or edit information in your tables. Forms let you view one record at a time. May be used to gather information in a form that is easier to read or input.

Reports Use reports to deliver a professional presentation or written report to your class. Lets you create a report format with information contained in your tables.

Queries Queries filter data so that you retrieve selected records or fields from the database. An object that provides a custom view of data from one or more tables. It examines and extracts the data in many ways. Example: You might want only the names of the students extracted that are enrolled in the Admin Support or Medical Office programs.

Pages Create HTML pages from a database quickly and efficiently.

Macros Automate tasks that you perform on a regular basis in a database.

Modules Automate a group of related procedures in Access 2007.

Record The rows in the table are called records. A record contains information about a given person, product, or event. A row in the Patient table, for example, contains information about a specific patient.

Field The columns in the tables are called fields. A field contains a specific piece of information within a record. In the Patient table, for example, the fourth field, City, contains the city where the patient is located.