Retrieving Information
Queries and their parts
A query retrieves data from one or more tables according to criteria you define. In design view you add tables, choose fields, and set criteria. Know the difference between sorting (orders all records) and filtering (shows a subset), and between a select query (returns records) and an action query (updates, deletes, appends). A query can use calculated fields built from expressions, and aggregate functions such as Count, Sum, Average, Min and Max, often with grouping.
Criteria syntax - the big trap
Text criteria need quotes ("Paris"), dates need hash delimiters (#31/12/2025#), numbers need neither. Use * and ? as wildcards with Like, and comparison operators (>, <, >=, <> for not equal). Combine conditions on one row with AND, and on separate rows with OR. A frequent exam trap is a criterion placed on the wrong field, or <> mistaken for "blank". Remember that a query result is live: it reflects the underlying tables each time it runs.
Output
Query results can be sorted, filtered further, and used as the source for forms and reports. Know how to show or hide a field in the result (the Show tick box) and how to run, save and re-run a query.
Rule of thumb
Quote text, hash dates, bare numbers; same row = AND, new row = OR.
Worked example
To list members in Paris or Lyon who joined after 1 January 2024: put "Paris" and "Lyon" on two separate criteria rows under City (OR), and >#01/01/2024# under JoinDate on both rows so the date applies to each city.