New to Database Creation

Trying to learn about databases..

[Dave221]

Well it's summer now, (for me anyway :) ), and I thought I'd try and learn a bit about how to build a database for something fun to do in my free time.

I'm going to be honest, my web page design skills are quite limited. I know how to create web pages in HTML, and have taken a few Java / C++ courses, but other than that my knowledge is quite limited.

So anyway, I'm really just trying to find what path to take and a good place to try to learn some information.

I would like to try and create a database where a group of people can add their own "lists" of numbers, for instance, and then be able to gather all of that data and perform calculations on it. For data entry, I would like to attempt to create some kind of user friendly method of entering the data (flash?), and a way for the database to remember the person's list(s).

So, I'm guessing I'll need to know how to make a user database, and associate lists with them, as well create the "list" database, and create a user interface for entering data.

I don't mean to be asking for anything too specific here, so I'd really appreciate if someone could tell me what I will need to learn, and some good places to learn it.

Thanks a lot!

[mattur]

Learn database normalization. It's the foundation stone of professional database design. Without it, you're just feeling your way. With it, you can design any database. It's an essential skill.

You'll also need to pick up the basics of SQL. MS Access's query builder is a good graphical tool for building and testing SQL statements.

For coding database-driven web pages PHP and MySQL are probably the best options, or you can go the MS route of ASP/.Net and SQL Server.

The web is a good place to look to learn stuff... ;) HTH.

[rocknbil]

So anyway, I'm really just trying to find what path to take and a good place to try to learn some information.

Try the documentation area of MySQL.com [dev.mysql.com]
Learn by examples [dev.mysql.com]

[url=http://dev.mysql.com/downloads/mysql/5.1.html#downloads]Download it free [dev.mysql.com], a great way to work with mySQL is to install a local copy on your machine. You can launch the mySQL server right on your local computer, experiment with select commands, create databases and tables, all before doing any remote work on a live server. It's an invaluable tool.

The difference between MSSql and mySQL are minor, really, it's still based on the Structured Query Language. With MS apps the servers . . . are not free.

For data entry, I would like to attempt to create some kind of user friendly method of entering the data (flash?),

This can be done but is not the easiest way to get started as you have to learn and incorporate Flash into the database connection, requiring two technologies. Most web-based database connection is done using regular old web forms, posted to the language of your choice. There are mySQL API's for just about any programming language.

[Dave221]

Thanks guys, I've found a few good places with some decent tutorials, so I'm off to read up.

[piatkow]

to build databases effectively you first need to learn basic entity-relationship modelling.

[brotherhood of LAN]

SQL is one of the more simpler languages to learn IMO, good luck in finding your way!

Once you're familiar with the basic terminology and the normalization process you're well on your way.

[LifeinAsia]

to build databases effectively you first need to learn basic entity-relationship modelling.

Second that. Trying to visualize a database table as just like a spreadsheet (e.g., Excel) only works up to a point. But if you remain in that mode, you'll never unlock the power of DBs.

[Justin billy]

Nice to have you joined this community and hope you will like to share knowledge with all forum members.