Introduction

Microsoft Office Access 2003 makes it easy to use your data in a form to enter data, report, in a report to print for review, or on the Web using a data access page, which allows you to create dynamic Web pages.

Forms allow a database designer to create a user -friendly method of data entry. Instead of entering records in the grid of rows and columns in Datasheet view, you can use a form that can represent a paper form. Such a form can minimize data-entry errors because it closely resembles the paper-based form containing the information you want to enter in your table. A form can include fields from multiple tables, so you don't have to switch from one table to another when entering data. You can add borders and graphics to the form to enhance its appearance.

To print a simple list of the records in your table, you can click the Print button. But if you want to include calculations, graphics, or a customized header or footer, you can create a report. A report is a summary of information in one or more tables. Reports allow you to include enhancements that a simple printout of records in a table does not provide. In many cases a report answers important questions about the contents of your database.