How to Create Tables in Microsoft Access

Updated 2009-12-01 | Filed under Microsoft Access Tutorials | PDF

The following tutorial provides a step-by-step process to create a table in Microsoft Access.

Estimated Time: 5 Minutes.

Step 1: Click on the Tables tab

With your database open click on the Tables tab in the Objects column.

Step 2: Create Table using Design View

In the main view select Create table in Design view. This will open a new window with a table. The table consists of three columns:

  • Field Name: The name of the field (i.e. Name, Phone Number, Email, etc.)
  • Data Type: The type of data that will be stored in this field. Options include text, number, currency, and many more. Pick the appropriate one.
  • Description: (Optional) This field can be used to describe the information that is to be entered in this field.

For each Data Type there are different options at the bottom of the Design view window. Modify these to your liking.

Step 3: Save the Table and create Primary Key

Once you've created the fields you need to save the table. Simply go to File | Save to save the table. You'll be prompted to enter a Table Name. Enter the name and click 'OK'. You will once again be prompted with a new window stating There is no primary key defined. It is very IMPORTANT that you select 'Yes' to let Access create the primary key for you. To maintain good database design a primary key is necessary.

You'll notice a new field name ID now appears in the Design view with Data Type 'AutoNumber'.

Step 4: Start entering data into table

First close the Design view window. In the Tables window you should see your new table. Double click on it. This will open the table view which allows you to enter data into the table.

And there you have it! Easy to create tables in just 5 minutes. If you'd like to create a form on top of the table you can follow the steps on this tutorial.

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