How to Learn FileMaker Pro

Even novice computer users can learn the basics of FileMaker Pro.

The FileMaker Pro application, which is available for both PC and Mac computers, is a powerful database management program used by many companies and organizations. Mastering all of FileMaker Pro's features and tools can take a long time, but there are a few easy ways to start learning how to use FileMaker Pro. In addition to the plethora of online FileMaker resources on the Web, the desktop application includes a built-in help guide for new users.

Instructions

1. Visit the FileMaker Pro Resource Center (see Resources). All users with a valid installation of FileMaker Pro 8 or later have access to the Resource Center, which includes both text and video tutorials of the basic features of FileMaker Pro.

2. Watch the FileMaker Pro tour. When you first launch the FileMaker Pro application on your PC or Mac computer, you will immediately be taken to the welcome screen. Click on the "Learn More" button in the lower-left corner of the window and follow along as the program takes you through a tour of FileMaker Pro basics.

3. Get started with a template database. In FileMaker Pro, you can choose to either start building a database from scratch or use one of the many templates already installed with the program. Beginners should play around with several templates before attempting to build their own database.

4. Use the built-in help menu. With FileMaker Pro open, go to "Help" in the top menu bar and select the "FileMaker Pro Help" option. A small help window will appear, which you can keep open while working on your database project. Click on one of the main help topics to get introduced to FileMaker Pro features, or use the search bar to look for specific instructions.

5. Read the FileMaker Pro text tutorial. When you install FileMaker Pro on your computer, a full-text tutorial is also transferred to your hard drive for future reference. To access the tool, go to the "Help" menu, expand the "Product Documentation" submenu and select "Tutorial." A PDF version of the text tutorial will launch, which you can use to learn more about different FileMaker Pro functions.

References

• FileMaker: FileMaker Quick Start
• FileMaker: FileMaker Pro Help

Resources

• FileMaker: Resource Center