Database Normalization

Question 1

Database Normalization

Answer 1

Normalization is a systematic process of organizing data in a relational database. Its primary goals are to minimize redundancy (storing the same data in multiple places) and ensure data integrity by preventing anomalies during data entry or updates

Question 2

The process progresses through specific “Normal Forms” [3]

Answer 2

• First Normal Form (1NF): Focuses on atomicity. It ensures that each column contains only indivisible (single) values and that there are no repeating groups. Each row must also be uniquely identifiable.
• Second Normal Form (2NF): Builds on 1NF by removing partial dependencies. It ensures that all non-primary key attributes depend fully on the entire primary key, not just a part of it.
• Third Normal Form (3NF): Builds on 2NF by eliminating transitive dependencies. This means non-primary key attributes should depend only on the primary key, not on other non-primary key attributes

Question 3

Benefits and Trade-offs

Answer 3

While normalization reduces data redundancy and anomalies, it can increase complexity by requiring more tables and joins, which may potentially slow down query performance.