How to Assign a Datatype to a Table Field in Access 2003

Microsoft Access 2003 can facilitate the entry and management of vast sums of data, assuming the user knows how to enter and manage the data properly. Datatype assignment helps in recognizing entries for what they are (contacts, currency, dates) and can help in the sorting and searching of databases. Here is how to assign a datatype to a table field in Access 2003.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Access 2003

1. Install and open the Access 2003 program. This program may already be installed on your computer.

2. Open the file you want to assign a datatype to by clicking the "Open" icon. When creating a new database, click the "New" icon.

3. Decide which type of datatype you want to assign to your data. Look through the options to see which is most descriptive of your data. Some examples include: currency, memo, date, hyperlink or number.

4. Make sure you have the table you are manipulating open in "Design View." Now, click the "Data Type" column for the field in which you want to assign a datatype. If it is all the fields in the table, select them all at once.

5. Click the arrow next to the "Data Type" column and select the datatype you want to assign that field.

Tips & Warnings

• A field only has one datatype.
• Larger tables take some time to manipulate if you are changing the datatype for the whole table.
• Some datatype assignations can result in the loss of data. If this is going to be the case, Access 2003 will alert you before deleting any data.