MS Access Report Criteria

Use Access report criteria to isolate specific data.

Microsoft (MS) Access is database software used to store large amounts of information. MS Access is unique, because the user does not need to know a programming language in order to build and maintain the database and use its features. The components of MS Access are tables that are used to store raw data, queries that can manipulate table data, forms for entering data and navigating the database, macros that allow the automation of tasks and reports that provide a printer-friendly layout for database information. Like other database components, reports can be customized using criteria.

Format

Criteria for a report can be based upon specific numeric values or can be text-based. A report can display companies whose sales revenues that are over $100,000 or employees whose last names begin with S.

User-Specified

The database user can select the type of information needed. The user is prompted to enter criteria, such as a date range or an employee name, when the report is run. A dialog box will prompt the user for the requested information. The database builder allows the user to select the information that he or she would like to see.

Filter

Criteria can also be automatically filtered when a report is opened. It is not necessary for the user to enter any information. The database builder determines if a filter automatically loads with the report.

References

• Tek-tips: Use a Form and Query to Send Criteria to a Report
• Allen Browne: Limiting a Report to a Date Range
• Tech Republic: 10 Tips for Using Wildcard Characters in Microsoft Access Criteria Expressions

Resources

• Microsoft: Create a Form to Enter Report Criteria
• Microsoft: Examples of Filter Criteria