Good Database Design Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is a database?
A collection of information
What is a table in a database?
An electronic container that holds data consisting of rows and columns
What is a row in a database table known as?
A record
What are discrete pieces of information in a record called?
Fields
What does each field consist of in a database table?
A separate column
What is the definition of a record?
A row in a table that contains information about a particular person, place, or thing
What is a field in database terminology?
A discrete piece of information making up a record
What is a form in a database?
Used to enter, edit, and view data in a table, one record at a time
What is a query?
Enables you to ask your database questions
What is a report in the context of databases?
Enables you to summarize database information in a presentable format
What is the first principle of good database design?
Duplicate information (redundant data) is poor database design
Why is redundant data considered poor database design?
It wastes storage space and increases the likelihood of errors and inconsistencies
What is the second principle of good database design?
The correctness and completeness of information is important
What are the characteristics of a good database design?
[“Divides information into subject-based tables”, “Provides necessary information for joining tables”, “Supports accuracy and integrity of information”, “Accommodates data processing and reporting needs”]
What is the first step in the database design process?
Determine the purpose of your database
What is the second step in the database design process?
Find and organize the information required
What does dividing information into tables involve?
Dividing information items into major entities or subjects
What is a primary key?
A column used to uniquely identify each row
What is the purpose of setting up table relationships?
To clarify how tables relate to each other
What is normalization in database design?
Applying rules to reduce redundancy and improve data integrity
Fill in the blank: A __________ is a column that is used to uniquely identify each row.
Primary key
True or False: A good database design should include redundant data.
False
What should each column in a table store?
Facts only about the subject represented by the table
What should you consider when breaking down information into fields?
How you want to sort, search, calculate, or report based on that information
