How is a spreadsheet different than a database? A spreadsheet is a simple database! Spreadsheets are great for analyzing numbers, creating formulas and generating related charts. Databases can hold more records than spreadsheets Databases offer more sort and report options Databases offer a variety of security features

Introduction to Databases

A simple contact database can provide useful fields to store photos, extensive notes and tools for tracking relationships between contacts. A sample screen is shown here:

Introduction to Databases

Filemaker Pro Basics Browse Mode

Working with records in Browse mode After you create a database file and define tables and fields, you can start entering data. Each set of fields is called a record. You work with the data in your records in Browse mode. You can view, add, change, omit, or delete records in your file. FileMaker Pro saves the changes you make to your file as you work. If you've entered data in a record but haven't yet saved it, you can also revert the record back to its previously saved state. To switch to Browse mode from another mode:

Choose View menu > Browse Mode!

Filemaker Pro Basics Find Mode

In order to find data in your records, select Find mode. In Find Mode, the data fields will be blank. You can type text or numerals into a field. You can also use operators such as those shown here: To switch to Find mode from another mode: Choose View menu > Find Mode!

Filemaker Pro Basics Layout Mode

In Layout Mode, you can design both reports and data entry screens. Filemaker Pro includes drawing tools and the ability to display images. The layout of the database is the user interface. It can be as simple as a list or as elaborate as the recipe database shown here: To switch to Layout mode from another mode: Choose View menu > Layout Mode!