How to Create a Query That Uses Multiple Criteria in One Field in Access 2003

When you create a query that uses multiple criteria in one field for Access 2003, you restrict the number of search results that you will receive from that query. The multiple criteria can be either inclusive or exclusive depending on how the criteria are joined.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Access 2003

Instructions

1. Open the database in which you want to design a query using multiple criteria. From the database window, click "Queries," and then "Create Query in Design View."

2. Choose the tables that your query to search. Highlight the table name, and then click the "Add" button. A condensed version of the table will display in the design view pane.

3. Select the fields you want searched. For example, to find employees with the surname "Smith" or "Jones," select the "Last Name" field from the "Employees" table.

4. Fill in the "Criteria" box underneath the field with your multiple criteria. To continue the example, you would type "Smith" or "Jones" in the "Criteria" box underneath the Last Name field.

5. Click the "Run" button (it resembles a big red exclamation point on the Access toolbar). A new table appears to display the information your multiple criteria has filtered.

6. Save the query if you plan on repeating the multiple criteria query.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also create your query by clicking the "Design View" icon, which is found on the toolbar in the database window.

• If you experience problems creating multiple criteria that the Access 2003 application can recognize, open the "Expression Builder." This program helps translate your commands into a form that the computer understands.

• Make sure you include the right fields as part of your query. If you omit enough information, the query will be less useful to you.