Microsoft Access 2003 part 3

Queries

A way of locating/retrieving information in an Access database in order for a user to view, change/update or analyze. A query is also a question, answer to such is retrieve from the database. Query results can be the basis for other access objects like another query or reports.

SQL view – you can create a query in this view by typing the query using an SQL (Structured Query Language) syntax.

Design view – you can create a query in this view by dragging the chosen field of a particular table or another query from the table area to design grid.


Types of Queries

Select query – the most common type of query. Created by selecting information from chosen tables (based on user criteria). Information is displayed in datasheet for viewing and analysis. Changes can be made to the underlying data, the user should be careful not to make accidental changes.

Update query – a query that updates/modify data in the underlying table.

Append query – a query that appends data to the underlying table.

Delete query – a query that deletes records from the underlying table based on a criteria set by the user.

Crosstab query – a special type of query that summarizes data based on user defined row headings and column headings.


Forms

A window or user interface where you can place controls for users to view or enter information.

Form view – the view in which you enter data.

Design view – you work with the controls and properties of the form to refine how its works and looks.

Datasheet view – looks like a table in opened in datasheet view.


Reports

Display information based on tables or queries in a format chosen by the user. Report objects can be programmed to respond to user choices. Can include information from multiple tables and queries, calculated values from database information, elements that can be formatted such as headers, footers, titles, and headings.

Design view – where you can make changes to report design as in the case of form design view.

Print preview – show exactly how a report looks when printed.

Layout preview – the same as print preview except that not all details are shown.


Macros

Used by Access to respond to an event. Macros can be executed using a VBA (visual basic for application) code through form buttons that are clicked by users. Macros automate common routines like opening and closing forms or printing of reports.


Modules

VBA programs that are more powerful than macros. VBA is a high level programming language present in every MS Office application. If you have programmed before with Visual Basic, the VBA environment and syntax would be familiar to you. VBA has hundreds of commands that can handle complex operations that cannot be handled by macros.