Chapter 9 Notes
Unit 3 Database Management · Chapter 9
Create and Edit Tables in Base
Master relational table architecture in LibreOffice Base: Data Types (CHAR vs VARCHAR, Numeric, Temporal, Boolean), Table Design View, Setting Primary Keys, and Configuring Field Properties.
Chapter 9 Theory
1. Base Data Types Overview
| Category | Data Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Text | CHAR(n) | Fixed-length. Pads unused characters with spaces. |
| VARCHAR(n) | Variable-length. Uses only memory required for entered characters. | |
| Numeric | INTEGER | Standard 4-byte integers for IDs and quantities. |
| DECIMAL | Exact decimals specifying precision and scale (e.g. Salary, Price). | |
| Temporal | DATE / TIME | Stores dates (YYYY-MM-DD) or exact timestamps. |
2. Setting Primary Keys & Properties
- Setting Primary Key: Right-click the gray row selector on the far left > click Primary Key.
- AutoValue: Set to 'Yes' for auto-incrementing integers (1, 2, 3...).
- Entry Required: Set to 'Yes' to enforce the NOT NULL constraint.
- Length: Restricts max allowed characters in VARCHAR fields.
Chapter 9 Practice
Solved MCQs: Tables & Data Types
1
What is the key difference between CHAR and VARCHAR data types in LibreOffice Base?
2
Which of the following data types in Base is used to store large descriptive memos, paragraphs, or remarks?
3
How do you designate a field as the Primary Key in Table Design View in LibreOffice Base?
4
What does the 'AutoValue' field property do when enabled for an Integer Primary Key in Base?
Frequently Asked Board Questions