How to Create a Spreadsheet in Access
The core structure for any Microsoft Access database is its tables. In the data entry mode, these look like Excel spreadsheets with field headings, and cells in columns and rows. Where Excel spreadsheets are versatile, Access tables are structured and defined. This allows you to build relationships between tables and reduce data entry and redundancy. You can create a table in Access by designing the structure and then accessing the data entry mode.
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Instructions
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Click the "Create" tab on the ribbon at the top of the page and select "Table Design." This opens a blank table in the design view which allows you to build the structure of your table. You can always return to the "Table Design" to modify fields, data types and descriptions.
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Type a word or phrase into the "Field Name" cell. Access locates information based on field names and requires them in each table. If you have more than one word, it's conventional, though not necessary, to remove the space between them, such as "EmployeeName."
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Select a data type for your field by selecting an option in the "Data Type" drop-down box. For example, if your field only consists of numbers, select numeric. For general text fields, select "Text."
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Complete your field listing by inputting all field names and data types. If you would like a description of the cell to appear on a form, type a phrase or sentence into the "Description" text box. Click the "View" button on the ribbon and select "Datasheet View" to enter data into your new table.
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Tips & Warnings
Use strong descriptions such as "SaleDate" or "ProductNumber" for field names so that you can easily identify the contents from a field listing.
To limit confusion while creating queries, forms and reports, try to give each field a unique name from all others in your database.
References
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