In Microsoft Access 365, Forms are considered a database object[1]. Specifically, they are used as user interface (UI) objects designed to facilitate data entry, editing, and navigation within the database.
Key Characteristics of Forms in Access:
Interface for Interaction: Forms provide a visual interface for interacting with the data stored in tables.
Customization: They can be customized to include buttons, text boxes, dropdowns, and other controls to enhance usability.
Bound or Unbound:
Bound Forms: Directly linked to a table or query, allowing data manipulation within the source.
Unbound Forms: Not linked to a data source; often used for navigation or as a dashboard.
Support for VBA: Forms can include embedded VBA code for advanced functionality and event-driven automation.
Layout Options: Can be designed in various layouts like Single Form, Continuous Form, Datasheet, or Split Form.
Forms are an essential object type for creating a user-friendly database application in Microsoft Access.
Forms are the third of the four main Access objects.
The four main access objects are
tables,
queries,
forms, and
reports.
Forms are a useful supplement to tables. While tables store and display data, you might find it difficult to view all the data in one record if you have many fields or if the data stored is lengthy. And there is just no getting around the fact that tables are not very attractive. Forms serve many of the same uses as tables, they display data for editing and they enable you to enter new data.
Forms are extremely useful for entering and editing related data that is stored in different tables. Using a form lets you display related records together. Here is an example of a simple form that can be used to enter and edit data.
Microsoft Access - [Projects]
Project ID: 1
Client: Network Consultants, Inc.
Project Description: General Marketing Brochure
Start Date: 6/1/99
Due Date: 6/21/99
Completed: [Checkbox Checked]
Paid: [Checkbox Unchecked]
Table Fields:
- HoursID
- Date
- Hours worked
Table Records:
1 | 6/1/99 | 4
2 | 6/3/99 | 4
3 | 6/6/99 | 2
Record: 1 of 22
In the next lesson, create an AutoForm from one table.
[1]database object: In Microsoft Access Forms, a database object refers to the underlying data source that the form interacts with. This could be a table, query, or SQL statement that holds the information displayed and modified by the form. By binding the form to a database object, users can seamlessly view, add, edit, and delete records within the associated data source.
![Microsoft Access - [Projects]](images/access-form.gif)