Basics on how to create a database...?

Question

I want to start learning how to create databases... Ive seen many sites about downloading Apache, PHP and MySQL... Im a little confused as to where to start... I really want to start playing around with a database software so i can try an learn... But i just dont know where to start... Can someone tell me exactly what i need to download and maybe sites that could help better understand a lot of this

Answer 1

Install mysql server and mysql workbench, then start reading up on database normalization. To learn about databases alone, php, apache, etc. are not required and will only be a distraction.



Someone is bound to suggest Microsoft Access sooner or later. Stay away -- it'll only teach you bad habits. [See? "How would I know" just did so]



If you REALLY want to do it right, ignore mysql too, and download/install PostgreSQL with PgAdmin III (it all comes together in the windows package). Together with the (excellent) PostgreSQL documentation, you'll learn the subject much better than people who use databases like MySQL every day.

Answer 2

Don't listen to the people who bash MS Access, it's simple ignorance on their part. It is an exceptional tool, and a great ( and inexpensive ) way for somebody new to databases to learn, as the interface is so visual and there's no setup to worry about.



The logic behind good database design is the same in Access as it is in MySQL, SQL Server, etc. You can learn it with any system.. but Access is the most use friendly of the bunch.

Answer 3

If you are new to databases, you must start from learning the theory of designing a database for a real life problem. It is interesting but not thrilling, though:



http://searchoracle.techtarget.com/tutorial/Learning-Guide-RDBMS-fundamentals



I won't advise "play around and learn" methodology because it only works with terribly simple concepts such as games but certainly not with databases.



Once you know how to design a database, you will be able to create examples using Microsoft Access that comes bundled with Microsoft Office. A good free alternate is OpenOffice.org software called "Base".



Once you know how to create tables, you need to learn SQL programming, which is luckily a very simple language. It stands for Standard Query Language. Here is a link for that:



http://www.sql-tutorial.com/rdbms-and-database-tables-sql-tutorial/



Although paper books are better than computer screens for such brain-intensive activities.



Once you can write simple SQL statements, you would like to try real programming but my gut feeling says you won't like that because it is a G-damn time consumer. You still can post another question when you reach there.



Good luck.

Answer 4

Wow, I've been a programmer for almost 4 years, and that other dude's answer confused me...



To be up and front.



The easiest way, is an external webhost.



I reccomend 000webhost.com & Hosting24.com (Paid version of 000webhost)



NOW... www.w3schools.com is a GREAT resource website,



Basically, once you sign up for 000webhost.com, click on MYSQL, and create a new database.

If you have any questions, the w3schools Forum (w3schools.invisionzone.com) is very helpful.

Check it out!