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Database Terminology: Tables, Records & Field Data Types

A table holds records of the same kind. A record is one row; a field is a named category of information represented by a column. Consistent field names and appropriate types make data easier to query and validate.

Worked single-table design

A lending club needs MemberID, Name, PostalCode, BooksBorrowed and FeesPaid. MemberID identifies one record. Name and PostalCode use text: a postal code can contain letters and leading zeroes, so it is not a quantity for arithmetic. BooksBorrowed is an integer. FeesPaid is Boolean.

Other useful types include real for fractional numbers, date/time for dates or times, and character for a single character. Select types according to use, not just whether a sample contains digits.

Independent design

Design a single table for equipment loans, with one record per loan. Choose fields for the borrower, item, loan date and return status. Name a unique key and justify each type. A well-designed relational database can reduce duplication; it does not automatically eliminate duplicate facts or update problems.

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Exam-Style Question: Identify Database Records and Field Types

+35 XP

A table named StudentScores contains the following structure:

  • StudentID (e.g. 'ST1042')
  • Score (e.g. 88.5)
  • Passed (e.g. TRUE)
  • ExamDate (e.g. '2026-06-15')

The table currently stores details for 25 individual students.

  1. The number of records in this table is: [Space 1]
  2. The most suitable Cambridge data type for Score is: [Space 2]
  3. The most suitable Cambridge data type for Passed is: [Space 3]
Word Bank / Available Cards (Drag into spaces or tap to place)

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