Intro to MS Access

• MS Access - a powerful database software package or program that can be used to create and manage databases
• Database File - it is the main file that encompasses the entire organization
• Table - a collection of related data about a specific topic (entity) that are organized in fields (column) and records (rows) on a datasheet. There can be multiple tables in a database
• Fields - these are the different characteristics (attributes) within a table. Tables usually contain multiple fields. A column on a database sheet and defines the data type for a set of values in a table
• Data Types - These are the properties of each field. A field only has one data type
• Record (Values) - a row on a datasheet and is a set of values defined by field
• Navigation Pane - displays objects in a databse
• MS Office Button - is used to create a new database, open and save a database, and many other tasks
• Quick Access Toolbar - provides access to commands you frequently use. By default, Save, Undo, and Redo appear on the Quick Access toolbar
• Title Bar - displays the name of the database on which you are currently working
• Ribbon - used to issue commands. At the top of the Ribbon are several tabs. Clicking a tab displays related command group. Within each group are related command buttons. You click buttons to issue commands or to access menus and dialog boxes
• Tables - in Access data is stored in tables. A table is a set of columns and rows, with each column referred to as a field. Each value in a field represents a single type of data. Each row of a table is referred to as a record
• Queries - you use queries to retrieve specific data from your database and to answer questions about your data
• Forms - give you the ability to choose the format and arrangement of fields. You can use a form to enter, edit, and display data
• Reports - organize or summarize your data so you can print it or view it onscreen. You often use reports when you want to analyze your data or present your data to others
• Macros - give you the ability to automate tasks. You can use a macro to add functionality to a form, report, or control
• Modules - Like macros, modules give you the ability to automate tasks and add functionality to a form, report, or control. Macros are created by choosing from a list of macro actions, whereas modules are written in Visual Basic for Applications