Access 2002

[Debbie Dawes]

I recently went from a Microsoft Works Database to Access
2002. In Works I could have several fields with dollar
amounts entered and then have a field that totaled all
the fields. For the life of me I can not figure out how
to do it in Access. Please help.

 

[Steve Schapel]

Debbie,

First of all, a general comment... The database component of
Microsoft Works is a very different creature than Microsoft Access.
Works is what is known as a "flat file" system, whereas Access is a
Relational Data Management System. The concepts and principles behind
their correct use are not translatable.

In Access, you do what you are asking in a Query, by making a
calculated field using syntax like this...
NewFieldName: [FirstField]+[SecondField]+[ThirdField]
However, I should also point out that the legitimate need to do so in
a relational system is VERY rare, and probably indicates that your
table design should be re-vamped. If you are interested in exploring
this aspect, post back with some more details of what the "several
fields with dollar amounts" refer to, and someone will be able to
advise regarding the correct way to manage this in Access.

- Steve Schapel, Microsoft Access MVP