Microsoft Access Database Essentials: Tables, Queries, and Fields

Topic 4: Advanced Tables and Data Analysis

• What is an advanced table?
  The most efficient template for initiating a new database.
• Difference between SUM and COUNT functions:
  The SUM function adds the numerical elements of a column, while the COUNT function calculates the total number of entries in a column.
• Standard Deviation Function:
  A statistical measure used to determine the dispersion or variability of data relative to the mean.
• Table Analyzer:
  An assistant tool that examines a table and suggests whether it should be normalized into two or more separate tables.

Topic 5: Creating and Modifying Fields

• Methods to create a field:
  There are three primary ways to create a field in Microsoft Access.
• Adding fields in views:
  You can add a field in Datasheet View by using a template or by importing an existing field from another table.
• Show Date Picker:
  A property that determines if Access displays a calendar control when users edit a date field.
• Append Only:
  A property that tracks field value history. Setting this to Yes enables history tracking; changing it to No will erase existing history.

Topic 6: Creating and Navigating Records

• Query Wizard:
  A tool used to create fields that utilize a combo box to search for values in other tables or lists. Note that the Find Wizard is not a data type.
• Attached Data:
  Used to store binary attachments, such as digital images or graphics, that cannot be read in a text editor. Multiple files can be attached to a single field.
• AutoNumber:
  A unique sequential number (incremented by one) or a random number automatically assigned by Access when a new record is created.
• Memo (Long Text):
  Used to store text longer than 255 characters using rich text formatting, such as notes or long paragraphs.

Topic 7: Understanding Select Queries

• What is a Select Query?
  The most common category of query in Microsoft Access.
• Purpose of Queries:
  Unlike simple commands, queries can organize, filter, and extract data from multiple tables or other queries, and can be saved for future use.
• Query Criterion:
  A rule used to identify and filter the specific records you wish to include in your query results.
• Calculated Field:
  A column within a query that displays the result of a mathematical or logical expression.