ICDL Databases study plan

Define the core database objects (table, record, field, primary key, foreign key) in your own words

Identify flat-file versus relational structures and explain why normalization reduces duplication

Classify common data types (text, number, date/time, boolean, currency) for sample fields

Distinguish primary, candidate, and foreign keys in three example schemas

Design a normalized schema for a small scenario (e.g., orders and customers) to third normal form

Create tables in a database tool with appropriate field types, sizes, and required/optional settings

Set primary keys and enforce referential integrity on defined relationships

Enter and edit sample records while respecting validation rules

Build one-to-many and many-to-many relationships using junction tables

Apply input masks, validation rules, and default values to at least three fields

Import data from a delimited text file and correct type mismatches

Test referential integrity by attempting to delete a parent record and document the result

Write selection queries using comparison, AND/OR, and BETWEEN criteria

Sort and filter query results and hide non-essential fields

Use wildcards and pattern matching for text searches

Create calculated fields with basic arithmetic and concatenation

Construct multi-table queries using inner joins and explain the effect of join type on row counts

Apply aggregate functions (COUNT, SUM, AVG, MIN, MAX) with grouping

Use HAVING versus WHERE correctly and explain the difference

Build at least one parameter query and one query with a nested subquery or lookup

Create a data-entry form bound to a table with labeled, ordered controls

Add combo boxes and list controls sourced from related tables

Apply validation and clear error messaging on form fields

Build a main form with a subform to display related records

Add navigation controls (buttons, tabs) to move between forms

Design a tabular report with grouped sections, headers, and calculated totals

Add sorting, grouping, and summary statistics to a report

Preview and adjust layout for print, including margins and page orientation

Run a timed 40-question mixed practice exam and score each domain separately

Re-teach the two weakest domains using your own notes and worked examples

Complete a full end-to-end build: schema, queries, form, and report in under 90 minutes

Review error patterns and list five recurring mistakes with corrections