If you don't know how to write SQL, start by using the QBE (Query By Example). Usually you start with a select query to select what you want from a table, then change the query type to Append or update is that is what you want to do. This will enable you to get the joins and other syntax right. Once it works, you can switch to SQL view and copy the SQL into your VBA. I don't do that for a variety of reasons that are not relevant to your question but it is not categorically wrong wo use embedded SQL so do whatever you want.