1. Introduction

There are a number of different terms that are used when talking about databases. It is important that you understand these different terms and that you can use them appropriately in your coursework and when answering exam questions.

The first thing that you need to be able to do is explain what is meant by the term, 'database'.

 

DEFINITION: A database is a collection of data or information which is held together in an organised or logical way.

 

This is one of those terms that you really need to learn by rote in order to ensure you get all of the marks available in an exam question.

As well as defining the term, you might well be asked to provide an example. This could be any example, in which case it should be fairly easy for you to answer.

Or, they might give you a scenario such as an estate agents, a cinema or a GP surgery and then ask you to give an example of a database that might be used in that organisation.

As part of your revision think about different types of organisations and what kind of databases they might use.