Microsoft Access 2013 Tutorial Level 2: Understanding Data Types and Objects

As you continue to explore Microsoft Access 2013, it's essential to understand the different data types and objects that make up your database. In this tutorial, we'll delve into the various data types and objects, including modules, macros, reports, forms, queries, tables, and primary keys.

Data Types in Microsoft Access

Microsoft Access uses several data types to store information in your database. These data types determine how the data is stored and how it can be used for calculations or formatting. Here are some of the common data types used in Microsoft Access:

1. Date/Time: This data type is used to store dates and times, which can range from 100 through 9999.

2. Numeric: This data type is used for storing mathematical calculations.

3. Text: This data type is used for lengthy text or alphanumeric data that doesn't require calculation.

Modules in Microsoft Access

Modules are procedures or functions written using Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). They allow you to set up commands and processes in your forms, such as searching, moving to another record, or running a formula. Modules can be used to automate repetitive tasks, simplify complex calculations, and improve the overall functionality of your database.

Macros in Microsoft Access

Macros are mini-computer programming constructs that can be used to automate tasks and streamline workflows. They allow you to create custom actions and responses to specific events, such as when a user clicks a button or selects an option from a dropdown list.

Reports in Microsoft Access

A report is an object in desktop databases that is primarily used for formatting, calculating, printing, and summarizing selected data. Reports can be customized to display different types of data, including text, numbers, dates, and images. They are often used to ease the process of data entry or editing by providing a summary view of the data.

Forms in Microsoft Access

A form is a database object that you can use to create a user interface for your database application. Forms help you display live data from a table, allowing users to easily enter and edit information. They can be customized with various controls, such as text boxes, buttons, and dropdown lists, to provide a user-friendly experience.

Queries in Microsoft Access

Queries are used to retrieve specific data from one or more related tables and other queries. They allow you to select, sort, filter, and summarize data based on search criteria. Queries can answer complex questions by selecting and sorting data based on specific conditions.

Primary Keys in Microsoft Access

A primary key is a unique identifier for each record in a table. It's used to ensure that each record is distinct and to link related records together. Primary keys are often used in combination with foreign keys to establish relationships between tables.

Tables in Microsoft Access

A table is an object that stores data in a row-and-column format. Each field in the table has one data type, such as text, number, date, etc. Data types determine how the data is stored and how it can be used for calculations or formatting.

In conclusion, understanding the different data types and objects in Microsoft Access 2013 is essential for creating a functional and efficient database. By mastering these concepts, you'll be able to design and build databases that meet your specific needs and improve your productivity.

Microsoft access 2013 tutorial level 2