Learn how to retrieve data from an Access database by using Structured Query Language, or SQL

Access is designed as a rapid application development (RAD) tool that does not require programming. You can write and execute SQL statements in Access, but you have to use a back-door method to do it. To open a basic editor where you can enter SQL code, follow these steps:

MS Access provides two ways to write queries: using the Query-By-Example editor or by using pure SQL code. You can use SQL in VBA by using a combination of string literals and variables to construct SQL statements that can be executed using the CurrentDB.Execute method.

Query criteria help you zero in on specific items in an Access database. If an item matches all the criteria you enter, it appears in the query results. To add criteria to an Access query, open the query in Design view and identify the fields (columns) you want to specify criteria for.

A properly designed database provides you with access to up-to-date, accurate information. Because a correct design is essential to achieving your goals in working with a database, investing the time required to learn the principles of good design makes sense.

May 24, 2016 · To create a query in Access 2013 or 2016: Click the CREATE > Query Design button on the Ribbon. The results of the query will be displayed. You also have the option of saving your query. To save the query, right-click on the query tab. click Save, and name it at the prompt. Below are screenshots showing the above steps.

Mar 29, 2022 · After you have created and populated a table, you may need to modify the table's design. To do so, use the ALTER TABLE statement. Be aware that altering an existing table's structure may cause you to lose some of the data. For example, changing a field's data type can result in data loss or rounding errors, depending on the data types you are ...

Dec 26, 2024 · By understanding the basic SQL syntax, creating queries in the Query Design view, and writing SQL queries in the SQL view, you can harness the full potential of Microsoft Access for querying and manipulating data.

Jan 3, 2025 · Learn how to use SQL in Microsoft Access with this step-by-step guide, complete with examples, FAQs, and tips for better database management.

Sep 21, 2021 · Applies to: Access 2013, Office 2013. Overview of the Access SQL reference; Data definition language (DDL) Data manipulation language; Windows registry settings for external data sources