Data manipulation

Question 1

Define the terms flat file database and relational database

Answer 1

Flat-file databases:
Stores data in one table, organized in rows and columns

Relational databases:
Stores data in more than one linked table

Question 2

Explain where it would be appropriate to select a flat file database or a relational database

Answer 2

• If you do not want to input the same data several times, relational databases allow you to record the data once
• It is easier to produce reports from relational databases
• If multiple data sources do not need to be linked, flat-file databases would be more appropriate

Question 3

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using relational tables rather than a flat file database

Answer 3

Advantages:

• Saves internal memory and storage space
• Records data only once
• Easy to produce reports

Disadvantages:
- It may be more difficult to find data