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Appendix A:  Beginner’s Guide to Databases

A subset of data extracted from one or more tables is called a recordset (or a DataSet in 
ASP.NET). A recordset is also a table because it’s a collection of records that share the same 
columns. For example, a hockey team roster listing the names and positions of the players 
could be called a recordset: it consists of a subset of all the possible information about the 
players, including goals, assists, penalty minutes, and so on. 

To create a recordset, you run a database query. A query consists of search criteria. For 
example, the query can specify that only certain columns be included in the recordset, or that 
only certain records be included. For more information, see 

Related topics

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Database design basics

Database design is the first step in building any database-driven website. This section presents 
a case study to explain basic database design principles. The case study involves a web 
application commissioned by a fictional company called Arrow Aircraft Services, a firm that 
manages a small fleet of privately owned business jets. 

Database design consists of a series of common steps. First, study the business rules and 
policies to be reflected in the web application. Second, consider the questions users will ask 
the database. Third, define the structure of the database. Finally, create the database.