Last updated on January 1st, 2024 at 11:40 pm
If you are a student or a person who works in an office, chances are you have heard the term databases, and you want to know the definition of a database or how to use it, or if databases are challenging or easy to work with. In this article, we will find and get the answers to these questions and the ones below that are also associated with database terminologies:
- What is the purpose of a database;
- How important a database is;
- What is a database table;
- What is a database record;
- What is a database row;
- Features of a database;
- Advantages and disadvantages of a database; and
- An end-of-lesson quiz.
If you wish to learn about the types of keys used in a database, visit primary key in a database.
Definition of Database
In the field of information technology, a database is made up of data stored and organized in an electronic format for business use. A database is made up of a collection of tables that are related to each other.
What is the purpose of a database?
The purpose of an electronic database is to store, organize, edit, and easily retrieve information quickly. Databases are usually organized in such a manner as to make it easy to access and manipulate information as well as create reports.
If you are interested in learning how to set up database tables, visit create database tables and setup data types.
Applications used for databases
One of the most well-known applications used for databases is Microsoft Access. However, while it is a good tool to start with because of its wide popularity, it is not the only type of database application available today. In fact, it is not necessarily the best one for your business, and it is not free.
Microsoft Access may seem a bit difficult to adapt to for anyone unfamiliar with this computer program. However, with practice, it is easily scalable. Our articles aim to make you comfortable with this great tool in the shortest possible time. However, be sure to practice because reading about it is not enough.
Be aware that there are many other applications for databases that are free. Some of them are:
- IBM Db2;
- MariaDB;
- Amazon Relational Database Service (RDS);
- MongoDB; and
- MySQL.
On the other hand, there are other database programs that are great but not free to use. Some examples are:
- Infinity;
- Smartsheet; and
- Microsoft SQL Server.
Most big businesses require a database of some sort. Whether it is for keeping track of customers, suppliers, or your students’ information, databases are great business tools that help you to organize. Below you will see some industries that use databases:
- Banks;
- Schools and universities;
- Accounting and financial industries;
- Medical;
- Manufacturing;
- Libraries; and
- E-commerce websites.
The next database terminology we will explore is database table – What is a database table?
Database tables are essential in that they hold data. They also consist of columns and rows. Although the process used to create them is not the same, database tables resemble those used in spreadsheets.
What are a database row (also called a tuple) and a database record?
A database row or tuple is a context where they are related data. A database row is a collection of cells that run horizontally across the screen and holds related information called a record. There is no limit as to how many cells a row may contain.
Features of a database – Other database terminologies you will come across
- Field – The field is the smallest amount of data that you can store. These are the actual boxes that are created when a column and row intersect. In the study of databases, a field is also used to refer to a column. Each field or column contains data that has the same data type.
- Query – A database query is where you enter an instruction that tells a database program to generate information based on some criteria.
- Report – The report is the formatted data generated by database queries. It is used to generate summary information. It is generally used for data analysis.
- Form – It is a user interface designed for searching, entering, and displaying the data in the database.
Advantages and disadvantages of a database
Pros
- Reduces the chance of data redundancy.
- You can easily enter store, or search data.
- You can easily change data at any time.
- Data is more likely to be error-free since an electronic database is more consistent than a traditional one.
- You can apply passwords or locks so only those with permission/clearance can enter.
Cons
- You may store some data incorrectly.
- You may find it quite expensive to get started.
- You may find databases complicated or difficult to understand if you are new to databases. There is a need to train staff.
f you are interested in learning how to manipulate information in a database, visit create a query with criteria and create a select query.
How important is a database?
Databases are essential because the systems store important or valuable data and hold a large amount of data in one place. You can also change or update it.
Before you go
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