vague searches

[wort0987654321]

how can i complete a search that will allow you to enter only parts of a persons name for example

so if i was searching for chris johnstone i could search for johnston if i didnt know the correct spelling or the first name.

is this possible and if so how do i do it

 

[dcx693]

Use the Like function in your query criteria. For example, Like jo* will return all names that begin with "jo". You can also use the ? to represent single character matches. Look in the Access online help and search the forum for many examples and usage tips.

Also, if you're primary dealing with Last names of people in the U.S., you might want to check out the discussion of the Russell Soundex Algorithm in the Access Cookbook, page 255. The algorithm searches for names which sound similar to a name that you enter. It supposedly works much better than searching using Like, but I've had limited experience with it.

 

[wort0987654321]

what is the access cook book

 

[dcx693]

Access Cookbook. This book is an excellent "idea" book, really meant for intermediate to advanced users.