Data Field Format

[Bud Parker]

Although I am computer literate (famous last words…) I am a rank amateur in Databases. I am an Election Poll Worker who is trying to help my County organize their Poll Worker’s Data. Initially, simple things like Name, Addresses, Phone Number(s), etc. Not much problem with creating the Table until I decided my comprehension of multiple entries for things like Telephone Numbers within that Table. I could simply add additional columns for HomePhone, CellPhone, WorkPhone, … But, isn’t there a way to create a dropdown list within one Table data field? I suppose I could create another Table and link it to the Worker Table, but that seems not to be appropriate to me.

[Micron]

But, isn’t there a way to create a dropdown list within one Table data field?

Yes, but you should avoid it. It's called a lookup field. Links on the subject below.

I could create another Table and link it to the Worker Table, but that seems not to be appropriate to me

Absolutely appropriate. It's called Normalization. More links.

Actually, easier if I cut and paste my whole standard list
Normalization Parts I, II, III, IV, and V
http://rogersaccessblog.blogspot.com...on-part-i.html
and/or
http://holowczak.com/database-normalization/

Entity-Relationship Diagramming: Part I, II, III and IV
http://rogersaccessblog.blogspot.ca/...ng-part-i.html

How do I Create an Application in Microsoft Access?
http://rogersaccessblog.blogspot.ca/...cation-in.html

Important for success:
One source about how to name things - http://access.mvps.org/access/general/gen0012.htm
What not to use in names - http://allenbrowne.com/AppIssueBadWord.html
About Auto Numbers
- http://www.utteraccess.com/wiki/Autonumbers
- http://access.mvps.org/access/general/gen0025.htm

The evils of lookup fields - http://access.mvps.org/access/lookupfields.htm
Table and PK design tips - http://www.fmsinc.com/free/newtips/primarykey.asp
About calculated table fields - http://allenbrowne.com/casu-14.html
About Multi Value Fields -http://www.mendipdatasystems.co.uk/multivalued-fields/4594468763

[orange]

Tables are for storing data. Forms act as a "window" for users to "see"the data.
User interaction is done via forms. The "dropdown" (combo box) is usually a control on a form.
Do most of the "people" have multiple phones? Do you need all phones or just the "best way to reach me"?
If you need all phones then I'd use a separate field for each.

Interesting county election that includes foreign countries???

[Bud Parker]

Thanks, Orange for replying. Currently I'm taking a Lynda Video Course to brush up on my deficiencies in Access, but it is a lot to digest!

I shall explore yoursuggestion and implement that.

Let's marked this one . . .