Key Terms
Backstage viewContains many of the commands that were onthe File menu in previous versions of Microsoft Access and enables you to create a new database, create a database from a template,open an existing database, view and edit database properties, manage user accounts, and perform many databasemaintenance tasks.
badgesSmall square labels that contain KeyTips.
Change Help Location menuAmenu that enables you to choose between searching help topics online and help topics offline.
databaseAtool for collecting and organizing information.
database managementA system for managing data that allows the user to store,
system (DBMS)retrieve, and analyze information.
datasheetA visual representation of the data contained in a table or of the results returned by a query.
data typeThe kind of information a field contains—whether text, number, date/time, or some other type.
dialog box launcherA small arrow in the lower-right corner of a group that you click to launch a dialog box.
fieldA column in a database table.
File tabA tab that displays the Backstage view and contains a menu of commands that you can use for the common tasks performed with your database files—such as opening, saving, and printing.
formA database object that simplifies the process of entering, editing, and displaying data.
groupsCollections of records separated visually and displayed with its introductory or summary information.
KeyTipSmall letters and numbers that display on the Ribbon when you press Alt; used for executing commands with the keyboard.
normal formsThe standards and guidelines of database design that can be used to determine if a database is structured correctly.
normalizationTheprocess of applying rules to a database design to ensure that information is divided into the appropriate tables.
objectsDatabase elements, such as tables, queries, forms, and reports.
primary keyThe column in a database that uniquely identifies each row.
queryA database object that enables stored data to be searched and retrieved.
Quick Access ToolbarA toolbar at the top left of the screen that contains the commands that you use most often—such as Save, Undo, Redo, and Print.
recordA row in a database table.
redundant dataDuplicate information in a database.
relational database A group of database tables that is connected or linked by a defined relationship that ties the information together.
reportA database object that presents information in a format that is easy to read and print.
RibbonA graphic band across the top of the screen that contains tabs and groups of commands.
tabAn area of activity on the Ribbon.
tableThemost basic database object; stores data in categories.