How To Creating Tables in a Database in Access 2003
After creating a database file, you need to create
the tables that will store the data. There are several ways to create a
new table: in Design view, in Datasheet view, with a Table Wizard, or by
importing a table from another Access database. Depending on the method
you choose, creating a table can involve one or more of the following:
Specifying the fields for the table
Determining the data type for each field
Determining the field size (for text and number fields only)
Assigning the primary key
Saving and naming the table
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Datasheet
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When
you create a table in Datasheet view, you can start viewing and
entering data right away. Access automatically assigns a data type based
on the kind of information you entered in the field, and it assigns a
default field size for text and number fields. After you close and save
the table, Access prompts you to identify a primary key or to allow
Access to designate one for you.
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Design
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In
Design view, you must specify the fields, specify the data type for
each field, assign the size (for text and number fields), assign the
primary key, and save the table yourself.
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Table Wizard
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Using
a Table Wizard, you select fields from sample tables that are
appropriate for the type of database you are creating. The data type and
other field properties are already defined for each field.
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Importing
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If
you want to use data from another Access database in the database you
are creating, you can import it. When you import a table, all the field
names and data types are retained with the imported data. However, you
must name the new table and identify the primary key or have Access
create a primary key for you. Also, you may need to change the field
size and other properties after importing.
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Linking
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When
you link a table, the data is retrieved from a table in another
database. Linking a table saves disk space because there is only one
table rather than multiple tables with the same data. Linking a table
saves time because there is no need to update the same information in
more than one table.
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