Exam Preparation Notes for ADMN 410

General Exam Rules

  • Exam Format:

    • Takes place on Canvas.

    • Two parts: Part 1 (closed-book) with a cheat sheet allowed (one-sided, 8.5 x 11).

    • Arrive 5 minutes early; late arrivals will not receive extra time.

    • Bring your charger.

  • Part 1 Details:

    • Duration: 35 minutes, 32 questions (Multiple Choice & True/False).

    • Total Points: 150.

    • Focus: Definitions and implementation of key concepts from readings, slides, and homework.

  • Part 2 Details:

    • Duration: 40 minutes, 8 practical questions.

    • Total Points: 100.

    • Must use Microsoft Access; upload completed file as instructed.

    • Focus: Similar to in-class handouts and workshops.

Technical Preparation

  • Using Microsoft Access:

    • Mac users must access through Virtual Desktop (VDI).

    • Ensure machine or VDI functions properly before the exam.

    • Consider borrowing a loaner PC if necessary; technical issues during the exam will not receive assistance from the professor.

Key Areas of Focus for Both Parts of the Exam

  1. Introduction to Databases:

    • Data vs. Database: Understand the difference between raw data and organized data.

    • Relational Database: Definition and characteristics of a relational database.

    • RDBMS: Definition and examples of relational database management systems.

    • Access vs. Excel: Differences and use cases for each software.

    • Keys:

      • Primary Key: Definition and usage in a database.

      • Composite Key: Explanation of how it functions as a unique identifier composed of multiple fields.

      • Foreign Key: Definition and examples in establishing relationships between tables.

  2. Database Design Process:

    • 7 Steps in Database Design: Familiarize with the design process and fundamental rules such as Entity integrity and Referential integrity.

    • Cascade Update/Delete: Understanding how these features help maintain referential integrity in databases.

  3. Knowledge of Database Objects:

    • Tables:

      • Purpose of tables in organizing data.

      • Datasheet View vs. Design View: Comparison and capabilities of each view.

      • Creating tables in both views and importing data.

      • Modifying Data Types and Field Sizes; moving fields.

      • Establishing one-to-many relationships and their implications for record deletion.

    • Queries:

      • Difference between Query Wizard and Query Design, and familiarity with the creation steps.

      • Advanced query features: exact match conditions, sorting, operators (comparison, logical), creating calculated fields, aggregation functions, and wildcard criteria.

    • Forms:

      • Form Wizards: Steps for creating forms and layouts (main form and subform).

      • Understanding the various views and customizations (theme, colors, logos).

    • Reports:

      • Report Wizards: Steps for generating reports and layout options.

      • Customization features and conditional formatting in reports.

Note: Review the Access Mod2 handout for detailed information on the database design process and additional exercises.