Chapter 33: Getting Data from External Database Files
693
Note
When you add tables to a query, the Tables pane in Query connects the linked fields with a line between the
tables. If no links exist, you can create a link yourself by dragging a field from one table to the corresponding
field in the other table. n
Adding and editing records in external database tables
To add, delete, and edit data when you’re using Query, make sure that a check mark appears next
to the Records ➪ Allow Editing menu item. Of course, you’ll need the proper permissions, and
you can’t edit a database file that’s set up as read-only.Caution
Be careful with this feature because your changes are saved to disk as soon as you move the cell pointer out of
the record that you’re editing. You do not need to choose File ➪ Save. n
Formatting data
If you don’t like the data’s appearance in the Data pane, you can change the font used by choosing
Format ➪ Font. Be aware that selective formatting isn’t allowed (unlike in Excel); changing the
font affects all the data in the Data pane.Tip
If you need to view the data in the Data pane in a different order, choose Records ➪ Sort (or click the Sort
Ascending or Sort Descending toolbar icon). n
Learning More about Query
This chapter isn’t intended to cover every aspect of Microsoft Query; rather, it discusses the basic
features that are used most often. In fact, if you use the Query Wizard, you may never need to
interact with Query itself. But if you do need to use Query, you can experiment and consult the
online Help to learn more. As with anything related to Excel, the best way to master Query is to
use it — preferably with data that’s meaningful to you.