Step One: Figure out why you need the database.
Before you start building your database, you need to figure out its purpose. You need to take into account the different categories that you'll need to organize your information. Determine how many categories you'll need and how this information will be cross-referenced.
Step Two: Select your software.
You can choose from many different computer database software programs, but if you're new to databases, many of them will be beyond what you need. Microsoft Access is a good starter program, but there are many others. Check on your computer because you may have a basic database program installed already.
You can save a lot of time in the beginning by sketching out which fields you'll need. For example, if you're making a database for a holiday mailing list, you'll need fields for first and last name, street address and zip code. The more complex your database, the more spaces you'll need.
Step Four: Create a table for each portion of your database.
Creating tables allows you to store the appropriate facts. If your form needs an area for the address, you'll need to link the address to a person by creating a table for the first and last name of the person. Do the same for the rest of the fields that you need to complete your database.
Step Five: Group your fields into tables.
Each field gets its own unique information. For example, the first names go with the first names, and the last go with the last. You don't want any repeating information throughout the database. Make sure that you can express the fields in their own unique ways.
Step Six: Enter the data into your database.
After you've established the fields and the tables, you can begin entering the important information. Enter information in all of the fields, and you'll be able to search it later or easily change the information as needed.
That's all. ^^
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