-
Step 1
Plan the database. Determine the purpose of the database and the information to be input into the database. Decide what specific fields are needed, what types of fields and how the database should look. Think about how the database may be used in the future and who should have access to the layouts, scripts and field definitions.
-
Step 2
Select the "File" menu and choose "New Database." If the "FileMaker Quick Start" screen appears, choose "Create Empty Database" and click "OK." Otherwise, the "New File" dialog box will appear.
-
Step 3
Type a file name in the "New File" box. Be certain to give it a unique name; otherwise, the file name could overwrite another database. Navigate to the folder where the file will reside. Click "Save." The "Manage Database" box will appear.
-
Step 4
Define a field by giving the field a name and determining any applicable options. Specify the field type, such as text or number. While FileMaker Pro will allow changing the type of field at a later date, there are restrictions on the type of information it will retain in the changed field. Continue defining the fields until all fields are entered.
-
Step 5
Click "Done" when all fields have been defined. A basic layout with all the fields will appear.
-
Step 6
Select "New Record" from the menu. This will create a record to begin input of data.
