Microsoft Access Queries: An Action Query

By Author: Microsoft Access
Total Articles: 6

You use this type of query to change data in tables, saving the need to manually edit records or use any of the manual tools namely, Find and Replace. Examples for this action could be to reset data, change prices, increase volume and correct data migration and population issues.

One of the more commonly used examples is to carry out some sort of calculation and change prices for a range of products.

Ms Access Query

The above example increases all products for UK suppliers by 10% using the [Unit Price] field containing the original price value multiplied by 1.1 (an increase by 110%).

Just remember, this is an action query which means changes to any data values cannot be reversed once actioned which is why you should normally see a warning first.

However, it is always a good idea to take a copy or back up of your data files before running Microsoft Access queries of this nature.

There are many other types of queries too and the more you know about Access queries, the more flexible your database will be and produce more effective reports.

I have a couple eBooks about MS Access queries which may be of interest – why not check these and other Microsoft Access database eBooks out!

My name is Ben Beitler (based in London, UK) and I have been building, consulting & training with Microsoft Access databases for over 20 years.