Microsoft Office

Part V
Analyzing Data with Excel
FIGURE 33.14
Add the fields and criteria to complete your query.
Using multiple database tables
The example in this chapter uses only one database table. Some databases, however, use multiple tables.
These databases are known as relational databases because a common field links the tables. Query lets you
use any number of tables in your queries.
When you add tables to a query, the Tables pane in Query connects the linked fields with a line
between the tables. If no links exist, you can create a link yourself by dragging a field from one
table to the corresponding field in the other table.
NOTE
Adding and editing records in external database tables
To add, delete, and edit data when you’re using Query, make sure that a check mark appears next to the
Records ➪ Allow Editing command. Of course, you can’t edit a database file that’s set up as read-only.
CAUTION
Be careful with this feature because your changes are saved to disk as soon as you move the
cell pointer out of the record that you’re editing. (You do not need to choose File ➪ Save.)
Formatting data
If you don’t like the data’s appearance in the Data pane, you can change the font used by choosing Format ➪
Font. Be aware that selective formatting isn’t allowed (unlike in Excel); changing the font affects all the data
in the Data pane.
TIP
If you need to view the data in the Data pane in a different order, choose Records ➪ Sort (or
click the Sort Ascending or Sort Descending toolbar icon).
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