Spreadsheet programs provide powerful formulas and functions to calculate and analyze your data. A function is a ready-to-use formula that helps you perform specialized calculations. For example, in some spreadsheet programs, the SUM function adds a list of numbers.

Database programs are commonly used to manage mailing lists, phone directories, product listings and payroll information. Commonly used database programs include Microsoft Access, Corel Paradox and FileMaker Pro.

A table is a collection of information about a specific topic, such as a mailing list. You can have one or more tables in a database.

A table consists of fields and records. A field is a specific category of information in a table. For example, a field can contain the first names of all your clients.

A record is a collection of information about one person, place or thing in a table. For example, a record can contain the name and address of one client.

A database stores and manages a collection of information related to a particular subject or purpose. You can efficiently add, update, and organize the information stored in a database.

You can also perform more advanced searches, called queries. When you create a query, you ask a database program to find information that meets certain criteria, or conditions. For example, you can find all the clients living in California who purchased more than $100 of supplies last year.

Analyze and Print Information You can perform calculations on the information in a database to help you make accurate and informed decisions.