FLOAT, DOUBLE - can also store floating point numbers.

INT - positive or negative whole number.

To keep the data consistent from one record to the next, assign the appropriate data type to each column. By contrast, columns (also known as fields or attributes) contain a single type of information that appears in each record, such as the addresses of all the customers listed in the table. Records include data about something or someone, such as a particular customer. Here’s an example:Įach row of a table is called a record. To convert your lists of data into tables, start by creating a table for each type of entity, such as products, sales, customers, and orders. Within a database, related data are grouped into tables, each of which consists of rows (also called tuples) and columns, like a spreadsheet. To do that, you need to understand exactly how relational databases are structured. The next step is to lay out a visual representation of your database. Once you know what kinds of data the database will include, where that data comes from, and how it will be used, you’re ready to start planning out the actual database. Also, avoid placing the same data point in more than one table, which adds unnecessary complexity. For instance, consider separating the street address from the country so that you can later filter individuals by their country of residence. Be sure to break down the information into the smallest useful pieces. This information will later become part of the data dictionary, which outlines the tables and fields within the database.

Then list the types of data you want to store and the entities, or people, things, locations, and events, that those data describe, like this: Start by gathering any existing data that will be included in the database. Comb through any existing data systems (including physical and digital files).Analyze business forms, such as invoices, timesheets, surveys.

Here are some ways to gather information before creating the database: For instance, if you were making a database for a public library, you’d want to consider the ways in which both patrons and librarians would need to access the data. Make sure you consider the database from every perspective. Understanding the purpose of your database will inform your choices throughout the design process.

Dbschema tutorial