What is a data type? Describe the relationship between a field and a data type. What are some rules for selecting appropriate data types for fields when designing tables in Access?
A data type
Full Answer Section
Here are some rules for selecting appropriate data types for fields when designing tables in Access:
- Use the most specific data type possible. For example, if you only need to store numeric data that does not require decimal places, use the Integer data type instead of the Number data type.
- Consider the size of the data that you will be storing in the field. If you need to store a lot of data, use a data type with a larger size.
- Think about the operations that you will be performing on the data in the field. If you need to perform mathematical calculations on the data, use a data type that is designed for that purpose.
- Text - Used to store any type of text, including letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Number - Used to store numeric data.
- Date/Time - Used to store dates and times.
- Currency - Used to store monetary data.
- Yes/No - Used to store values that can only be Yes or No.
- AutoNumber - Used to store a unique sequential number that is automatically generated by Access.
Sample Answer
A data type is a classification of data that determines how the data is stored and manipulated in a database. Each field in a table must have a data type, and the data type determines the following:
- The size of the field
- The type of data that can be stored in the field
- The operations that can be performed on the data in the field