Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Databases

Chapter 2. The Anatomy of a Real Database

CHAPTER HIGHLIGHTS:

• An Introduction to Microsoft Access

• The Sample Northwind Traders Database

• What You Have Learned

Chapter 1, “An Introduction to Databases,” was devoted to the theoretical aspects of what a database is. This chapter, and most of the remaining parts of this book, are devoted to the practical aspects of what databases are. Databases are tangible entities that you can get your hands around and work with. Although the theory is important and helpful, no better method of learning exists than to examine a real database, inspect its contents, and understand how it was constructed.

This chapter examines the Northwind Traders Database that ships with Microsoft Access. To get the most out of this ...