About Me
MOS Access Associate (Office 365 and Office 2019)
1 Introduction to Microsoft Access
1-1 Overview of Microsoft Access
1-2 Understanding the Access interface
1-3 Navigating the Ribbon and Backstage view
1-4 Customizing the Quick Access Toolbar
1-5 Using the Tell Me feature
2 Creating and Managing Databases
2-1 Creating a new database
2-2 Opening and closing databases
2-3 Saving and backing up databases
2-4 Converting databases between file formats
2-5 Managing database properties
3 Designing Tables
3-1 Understanding table structure
3-2 Creating tables using table design view
3-3 Defining field properties
3-4 Setting primary keys
3-5 Creating relationships between tables
3-6 Enforcing referential integrity
3-7 Using lookup fields
4 Entering and Managing Data
4-1 Entering data into tables
4-2 Editing and deleting records
4-3 Using data entry forms
4-4 Sorting and filtering data
4-5 Using validation rules and messages
4-6 Importing and exporting data
5 Creating and Customizing Forms
5-1 Understanding forms
5-2 Creating forms using the Form Wizard
5-3 Customizing form layout
5-4 Adding controls to forms
5-5 Setting control properties
5-6 Using form views (Form View, Layout View, Design View)
5-7 Creating subforms
6 Creating and Customizing Reports
6-1 Understanding reports
6-2 Creating reports using the Report Wizard
6-3 Customizing report layout
6-4 Adding controls to reports
6-5 Setting control properties
6-6 Using report views (Report View, Layout View, Design View)
6-7 Grouping and summarizing data in reports
6-8 Printing and exporting reports
7 Querying Data
7-1 Understanding queries
7-2 Creating queries using the Query Wizard
7-3 Using query design view
7-4 Adding fields to queries
7-5 Using criteria and operators
7-6 Sorting and grouping query results
7-7 Creating calculated fields
7-8 Using aggregate functions
7-9 Creating and using parameter queries
7-10 Creating and using crosstab queries
8 Macros and Automation
8-1 Understanding macros
8-2 Creating and editing macros
8-3 Using macro actions
8-4 Assigning macros to events
8-5 Debugging macros
8-6 Understanding VBA (Visual Basic for Applications)
8-7 Writing simple VBA procedures
9 Securing and Sharing Databases
9-1 Setting database passwords
9-2 Encrypting databases
9-3 Managing user-level security
9-4 Sharing databases with others
9-5 Using SharePoint and OneDrive for data storage
9-6 Collaborating with others in real-time
10 Maintaining and Optimizing Databases
10-1 Compact and repair databases
10-2 Analyzing and optimizing database performance
10-3 Using the Database Documenter
10-4 Managing database objects
10-5 Backing up and restoring databases
10-6 Migrating databases to newer versions of Access
Introduction to Microsoft Access

Introduction to Microsoft Access

Microsoft Access is a powerful database management system (DBMS) that allows users to create and manage databases. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, understanding the fundamentals of Access is crucial for efficient data management.

Key Concepts

1. Database

A database is a structured collection of data. In Microsoft Access, a database can store various types of information, such as customer records, product details, or employee information. Think of a database as a digital filing cabinet where each file (or record) is organized in a specific way.

2. Tables

Tables are the core components of a database. They store data in rows and columns, similar to a spreadsheet. Each row represents a record, and each column represents a field (or attribute). For example, a table for "Customers" might have fields like "CustomerID," "Name," and "Email."

3. Queries

Queries allow you to retrieve specific data from one or more tables. You can think of a query as a question you ask the database. For instance, you might create a query to find all customers who live in a particular city. Queries can also be used to update, delete, or add data.

4. Forms

Forms provide a user-friendly way to enter and view data. They are like digital entry forms where users can input information without needing to understand the underlying table structure. Forms can be customized to include buttons, labels, and other controls to make data entry more intuitive.

5. Reports

Reports are used to present data in a formatted and organized way. They can be printed or viewed on-screen and are ideal for summarizing data. For example, you might create a report to show a list of all products with their prices and stock levels.

Examples and Analogies

Database as a Library

Imagine a library where each book is a record and each shelf is a table. The library's catalog system is like a query that helps you find books by specific criteria, such as author or genre. The librarian's desk, where you check out books, is akin to a form, making the process of borrowing books straightforward.

Tables as Spreadsheets

If you've ever used a spreadsheet, you're already familiar with the concept of tables. In Access, tables are similar but more powerful, allowing for complex relationships and data integrity checks. Think of each spreadsheet as a table and each cell as a field.

Queries as Search Engines

When you use a search engine to find information on the web, you're essentially creating a query. Similarly, in Access, queries help you find the exact data you need by specifying criteria. For example, a query can help you find all orders placed in the last month.

Conclusion

Understanding these key concepts—databases, tables, queries, forms, and reports—is the foundation for mastering Microsoft Access. By grasping these fundamentals, you'll be well-equipped to create and manage databases efficiently, whether you're working with Office 365 or Office 2019.

© 2024 Ahmed Baheeg Khorshid. All rights reserved.