Part 1. Learning Access Basics

This section covers the basic tools and options you'll find in Access 2003. Here, you'll learn how to start the program, how to use the toolbars and menus , and more. Learning these basics will help you not only with using the various features included with Access but also with using all Windows-based programs.

Database Window

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Starting Access

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Move the mouse pointer to the Start button on the taskbar. A ToolTip appears that reads Click here to begin .

Click the Start button to see the Start menu. (Depending on which programs are installed on your computer, your menu may look slightly different from the one shown here.)

INTRODUCTION

The most common way to start Access 2003 is to click the Start button on the left side of the taskbar. Doing so opens the Start menu, which contains a list of the programs installed on your machine. You can then click the program menu and program name to start the program.

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Finding the Taskbar

If you don't see the taskbar right away, it may be hidden. Move your mouse to the bottom of the screen to bring it into view. Alternatively, the taskbar may simply be docked at the top or on the left or right side of the screen.

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Move the mouse pointer to the All Programs menu option.

Move the mouse pointer across the menu and click Microsoft Office (if necessary) and then Microsoft Access .

Access opens with a blank background and a Task pane on the right side of the screen.

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Starting Shortcuts

If you have added a desktop shortcut for Access, you can double-click this shortcut to start the program. Also, if Access is one of your frequently used programs, you may see it listed on the left pane of the Start menu. You can click it from this list to start it. Finally, you may also see a Quick Launch toolbar displayed in the Windows taskbar. You can use the buttons in this toolbar to launch Office programs as well.

Opening a Sample Database

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To open a sample database, begin by clicking on the Help menu.

Move the mouse to the Sample Databases entry, and click the Northwind Sample Database option.

The Northwind database's opening screen appears; click OK to close this screen and display the Northwind database.

INTRODUCTION

Access includes sample databases, such as the Northwind database, that demonstrate how a database works. You can use the tables, queries, forms, and reports included in the Northwind database for practice. (You'll learn how to create and open databases of your own in the next part.)

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The Main Switchboard dialog box opens; click the Close button in the upper-right corner of the dialog box to close it.

The database window for the Northwind sample database opens. The rest of the tasks in this part show you how to work with an open Access database.

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Using the Main Switchboard

Some databases have a switchboard that presents database options by task rather than by object. If you create a database using a wizard, it may include a main switchboard.

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Not Installed ?

If you performed a complete installation of Access, the sample databases are available for use right away. Otherwise, you'll need to install the sample databases from the Access program CDs. Follow the onscreen instructions when prompted.