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Computer Basics: Database

Computer Basics: Database

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Database Basics

What is a database?

  • A database is an organized collection of data, or information, that is stored electronically on a computer system.
  • Databases are used to store a wide variety of data, such as customer information, product information, financial data, and scientific data.

Why use a database?

  • Databases offer a number of advantages over traditional methods of data storage, such as paper files and spreadsheets.
  • Databases are more efficient to store and manage large amounts of data.
  • Databases allow for easy searching and retrieval of data.
  • Databases can be used to share data with other users.

Types of databases:

  • There are many different types of databases, but the most common are relational databases and non-relational databases.
    • Relational databases store data in tables, where each table is made up of rows and columns.
    • Non-relational databases store data in a variety of formats, such as XML or JSON.

Database Design

  • Database design is the process of creating a database that is efficient and meets the needs of the users.
  • There are a number of steps involved in database design, such as:
    • Identifying the data that needs to be stored
    • Determining the relationships between the data
    • Normalizing the data
    • Creating a database schema

Database Management Systems (DBMS)

  • A database management system (DBMS) is a software program that is used to create, manage, and access databases.
  • Some popular DBMSs include Oracle, MySQL, and Microsoft SQL Server.

SQL

  • SQL is a structured query language that is used to communicate with databases.
  • SQL can be used to create, read, update, and delete data in a database.

See Also:

Microsoft Access

Microsoft Access is a database management system (DBMS) developed by Microsoft. It combines the relational Access Database Engine (ACE) with a graphical user interface (GUI) and software-development tools. Here’s what you can do with Microsoft Access:

  1. Create Databases: You can build databases quickly using templates, even if you’re not a developer.
  2. Data Management: Easily find, report on, and manipulate data stored in Access.
  3. Forms: Create rich data entry forms.
  4. Data Import/Export: Import, transform, and export data from various sources¹².

See also:

Further Reading

🧠 Practice & Progress

True/False (Mark T for True and F for False)

  • A database is an organized collection of data stored electronically on a computer system. True/False
  • Databases are only used to store customer information. True/False
  • Relational databases store data in tables. True/False
  • SQL is a programming language used to create websites. True/False
  • SQL is a language used to communicate with and manipulate data within a database. True/False

Multiple Choice (Select the best answer)

Which of the following is NOT a type of database?

  1. Relational
  2. Non-relational
  3. Spreadsheet

What is the purpose of database design?

  1. To make the database look pretty
  2. To create a database that is efficient and meets the needs of the users
  3. To store as much data as possible
  4. None of the above

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a database?

  1. Organized collection of data
  2. Stored electronically on a computer system
  3. Duplicates information across different files
  4. Allows easy searching and retrieval of data

Which type of database stores data in tables with rows and columns?

  1. Relational
  2. Non-relational
  3. Hierarchical
  4. Graph

What is the process of identifying data relationships, normalizing data, and creating a database schema called?

  1. Querying of Database
  2. Programming
  3. Optimization of Database
  4. Database Design

Which software program facilitates the creation, management, and access of databases?

  1. Word processor
  2. Web browser
  3. Database management system (DBMS)
  4. Operating system

Which of the following statements is NOT true about Microsoft Access?

  1. It is a relational database management system
  2. It combines a graphical user interface with a database engine.
  3. It is primarily used for enterprise-level applications.
  4. It offers various tools for data analysis and reporting.

What is the primary function of a database query?

  1. Create new data in the database
  2. Modify existing data in the database
  3. Delete data from the database
  4. Retrieve specific data from the database

Exercises

  • Write an SQL query to select all customers from a table named ‘customers’.

Answer:

select * from customers;

Review Questions

  • What is a database?
  • Explain the difference between relational and non-relational databases.
  • Describe the steps involved in database design.
  • What are the different types of databases?
  • What are the advantages of using a database?
  • What is the role of a database management system (DBMS)?
  • Define a database and write a note on Microsoft Access.
  • What is a database, and what are the steps involved in designing one? Additionally, describe the different types of databases and the advantages of using them.

References and Bibliography