Chapter 6 Cmp sci

Validation rule

Limits the type of data that a user can enter into a field. For example, if all of your schools course numbers are larger than 100, then the database designer can set a validation rule to prohibit values less than 100 to be entered on a registration form.

Aggregate Report

Meant to provide the reader with a snapshot of the data in the database, which is the key data that drives the business. It can inadvertently alter the managers and the data entry staff that a value looks suspicious

Validation text

This method provides an error message that will allow the users to know what they did wrong and further provide instructions on what they need to do to fix it.

Lookup lists

Using the lookup lists method, the field values are limited to a predefined list of values. For example, the list of values for the student classification in a university's student table would be Freshman, Sophmore, Junior, Senior, etc.

Data macro

executes a series of actions when a table event occurs or whenever a named macro is executed. Two types: event driven and named

Input mask

forces the users to conform to a specific data entry format for a given field. For example, all social security numbers must be entered in the 123-45-6789 format.

Lookup Wizard

helps the user to create the lookup field by asking six questions and then using the answers to create the options list. Before launching the Lookup Wizard, it is best to create the new table that will hold the lookup field option.

Is null

indicates fields that should not be blank

Table event

occurs naturally as users enter, edit, and delete table data

Combo Box control

provides a list of options from which the user can choose a single value

Lookup field

provides the user with a finite list of values to choose from. By using a predefined list of values, the user will increase the speed of data entry and also eliminate many data entry errors

Required data validation

sets the required property of a field to force the user to enter the data. A required field is a field in which the value cannot be left blank when you create a new record

Default value data validation

specifies a value that is automatically entered into a field. For instance, if most of the company's customers live in North Carolina, then it would be good to set the default value of the state field to NC

Tab order

the sequential advancing in a form from one field or control to the next when you press Tab

Data validation

A set of constrains or rules that help control how data is entered into a field