Microsoft Access is a powerful tool for managing data within a relational database environment.

In this basic training course, you will learn how to structure, enter, retrieve, filter and analyse data using tables, queries, forms and reports.

You will discover how databases work, understand the difference between tables and queries, and learn how to manage data in a structured and user-friendly way. Through practical exercises, you will not only learn the technical skills, but also understand the underlying concepts of relational databases.

This course is ideal for professionals who work with data and want to use Access for small to medium-sized database applications.

Duration

1 day.

Course Outline

1. Introduction to Databases and Access

• What is a database?
• Relational databases: basic concepts (tables, relationships, keys)
• The difference between Excel and Access
• The Access interface: ribbon, navigation pane and object types

2. Working with Tables

• Creating and modifying tables
• Defining fields: field names, data types and properties
• Setting primary keys
• Entering and editing data in datasheet view
• Using data validation and input masks
• Creating relationships between tables
• Enforcing referential integrity

3. Creating Queries

• What is a query?
• Creating selection queries to retrieve data
• Filtering and sorting within queries
• Performing simple calculations in queries
• Combining multiple tables in one query (inner join)
• Using parameters in queries (interactive search)

4. Designing Forms

• Creating forms for data entry
• Understanding different views: layout view, design view and form view
• Adding and modifying input controls
• Using combo boxes, option buttons and other input tools
• Customising navigation buttons and layout

5. Creating Reports

• Creating reports for printing or exporting
• Selecting and grouping data
• Sorting and adding subtotals
• Formatting reports with headers, page numbers and layout adjustments
• Previewing and exporting reports to PDF

6. Practical Tips

• Saving, securing and backing up databases
• Importing data from Excel
• Compacting and repairing a database
• Keyboard shortcuts and efficiency tips

Audience

This course is designed for:

• Administrative staff
• Data analysts
• HR or logistics professionals
• Anyone who wants to manage and analyse structured data using a relational database in Access

It is particularly suitable for users who regularly work with lists or datasets and want to move from Excel to a more powerful relational approach.

Prerequisites

• Basic knowledge of the Windows environment (folders, files, mouse and keyboard use)
• Some experience with Excel is an advantage, but not required
• No prior knowledge of databases or Access is necessary