same field in multiple tables

[Lee Grimm]

I have multiple tables which are linked by the same primary field key. How do I set it up so that I only need to add the data in the primary key field in one table which will automatically populate the primary key fields in the other tables?

 

[boblarson]

A primary key in one table should be the FOREIGN key in another table and each table should have its OWN primary key.

The way you have the primary key for the main table filled is using an autonumber so when you add a record it adds it automatically. The way you add that number as a foreign key to the other tables is to have the main table as the recordsource on a form and then the other tables exist as SUBFORMS on the main form with the Master / Child links set to the appropriate Primary Key / Foreign Key fields.

And, primary keys should really not matter to anyone so they can remain hidden, behind the scenes for the SYSTEM to use.

 

[ChipperT]

Bob is right on, as he always is. Also, if your field is repeated in multiple tables then it should probably be in its own table, with a primary key that then becomes a foriegn key in the other tables.

 

[boblarson]

Bob is right on, as he always is.

I think I would at least change that to "Bob is right on, as he is most of the time" because I am not right all of the time but do get it most of the time.