Access 2016 Intermediate

Lesson 1 – Setting Field Properties

Access 2016

Press [Esc] twice to delete the new record and switch back to Design view.

C REATING AN I NPUT M ASK - W IZARD

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Discussion

Input masks control how data is entered into a table, as well as the format in which it is stored. You can use an input mask to control how many characters are entered in a field; define each individual character as numeric, text, or either; and specify each individual character as mandatory or optional, as well as add literal characters to format the entry. Since the input mask controls the values users can enter into a field, it often makes data entry easier. You can create an input mask by entering the criteria directly into the Input Mask box. However, it is often easier to use the Input Mask Wizard to set the property for you. The Input Mask Wizard offers several predefined input masks for items such as dates and times, ZIP codes, telephone numbers, etc. In addition, you can modify any predefined input mask to meet your needs.

NOTE An input mask only affects new entries; data that has already been entered into a field is not affected if an input mask is created later.

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Procedures

1. Open the desired table in Design view. 2. Select the field to which you want to apply an input mask. 3. Select the General tab in the Field Properties pane, if necessary. 4. Select the Input Mask property. 5. Click the Build button . 6. Select the desired option from the Input Mask list.

7. Select . 8. Select the Placeholder character list. 9. Select the desired placeholder.

10. Select . 11. Select the desired option for storing the data.

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