How to Create Table Auto Increments in MySQL

Maintain your database structure with MySQL code.

MySQL is a freely distributed relational database used on various platforms, including UNIX, Windows and Mac. You can create a MySQL application using most popular languages, such as Java, C++ and PHP. The MySQL language enables you to construct and modify tables. Use the MySQL Auto_Increment method to create an auto increment value for your table, such as for a primary key.

Instructions

1. Open your MySQL table code and locate the table creation portion:

   CREATE TABLE products (

   ID MEDIUMINT NOT NULL,

   UNAME CHAR(20) DEFAULT '' NOT NULL,

   PRIMARY KEY(ID)

   );

2. Type "AUTO_INCREMENT" in the primary key (ID) definition. Modify this code as needed to fit your data:

   CREATE TABLE products (

   ID MEDIUMINT NOT NULL AUTO_INCREMENT,

   UNAME CHAR(20) DEFAULT '' NOT NULL,

   PRIMARY KEY(ID)

   );

3. Save the table modifications. The table "ID" field automatically increments.

References

• MySQL: MySQL 5.0 Reference Manual - Using AUTO_INCREMENT

Resources

• MySQL