Resources to learn more

[driver7408]

I have 3 HUGE 500+ page Access manuals that all have the same exact damn database examples in them in regards to the basics of forms, queries, and table structure. I have been designing much of my database project automation using macros and Expressions. I know the basic rules when it comes to data integrity; I keep my tables simple and try to do all of the calculations in my forms. My first database went online almost 2 years ago after being reviewed positively by an Access instructor, and it has served faithfully since, so I figure I am doing something right.

The most recent database I am creating has forced me to become more familiar with VBA and modules, because obviously the built in functions are WAY too limiting to someone who knows the capabilities of his potential database. Not to mention, I found that it is SO much easier to click on the compile button and get either instant results or an instant opportunity to see where my code needs to be fixed. Much of the applications I am trying to design depend upon a tremendous amount of automation and queries.

What I am asking for is if someone has a good suggestion for a good book or resource where I can learn more about the other many languages Access speaks; something that I can actually apply to my own database design. Much of what I can find is either really basic, or way over my head. I don't want to have to do a Google search every time I get stuck and see if someone else's code fits my application or particular problem. Its hard enough explaining what I am trying to do in programming terms, much less making a boolean expression out of it on a search engine. I really want to learn more about the programming end of things.

Much appreciated.

 

[MarkK]

I don't want to have to do a Google search every time I get stuck

Why not?

The thing about books, is that they are laid out in the order that the author thinks it makes sense to present the information, and this is never the order you need to learn it in to solve a particular problem.

What I recommend is pick a problem to solve, and learn what you need to learn about Access and VBA to solve it. Getting stuck and googling stuff is an essential part of that. Seeing other people's code is good. Post your code here and ask people how they'd refactor it to make it cleaner and simpler.

Use subroutines, use subroutines, use subroutines.

And then beyond that, get a book about programming theory, not necessarily related to VBA, and try to learn what a class is and what an interface is, which are two fundamental programming concepts. Try to start to solve VBA problems using classes modules.

Those are a few of my thoughts on the issues you raised.

Mark