Entering Data in a Table

Open the table in which you want to enter data. Notice that the first field is selected.

If the selected field is an AutoNumber field (shown here), press Tab to move to the next field. If not, type an entry in the selected field before pressing the Tab key on your keyboard.

The insertion point moves to the next field (here, the First Name field). Type an entry (in this case, Andrew ) and press the Tab key.

INTRODUCTION

A database is only as powerful as the data its tables contain. One way to enter data into your database's tables is to use Datasheet view (covered here). This method is much like entering data into an Excel spreadsheet. Another way to enter data into a table is to use a form; you'll learn about creating and using forms in Part 5.

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AutoNumber Fields

Some tables may include an AutoNumber field. This type of field contains an incremental number that is automatically entered.

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Default Entries

If you set up any default entries for the table (you'll learn how in Part 4), those fields in the table will already be complete. Of course, you can always override the entry by typing a new one.

The next field is selected. Continue typing entries and pressing the Tab key until you complete all the fields in the row, or record .

When you press Tab after completing the last field in the row, Access saves the record and creates a new, blank row, ready for your entries.

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Saving Your Entries

When entering data, you don't need to use the Save command to save your work. Each time you move the insertion point out of the current record or field, Access automatically saves your work.

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"Freezing" Field Names

To help you with data entry, you can "freeze" these column headings so that they are visible at all times, regardless of where you scroll in your table. For more information, see the task "Freezing and Unfreezing Columns" later in this part.