Database Essentials

Key Terms

• Big Data• Describes a dataset that cannot be stored or processed using traditional database software.

Examples: Google search index, the database of Facebook user profiles, Amazon.com’s product list.

• Common Field• A common field is contained in two or more database tables and forms a connection between

the tables

• Database• A data structure that stores organized information. Databases are designed for storage,

manipulation and analysis of related data.

• Group• The name for a “group” of tools on the ribbon bar

Key Terms (continued)

• Microsoft Access• One of the most powerful products available for creating desktop databases.

• Quick Access Tool Bar• Contains commonly used tools

• Relational Database• A relational database consists of multiple tables of information that are related through

common fields.

• Ribbon• Groups common tools together. The active ribbon changes when you select a “tab.”

• Spreadsheet• A document that stores data in a grid of horizontal rows and vertical columns. Spreadsheets

are designed to analyze data and sort list items.

Key Terms (continued)

• Tab• The item you click to select a particular ribbon of tools.

• Table• Information organized in rows and columns

• Title Bar• The area across the top of Access that gives you the name of the file (database) that you

currently have open.