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Data Design Pros, LLC

 

FILEMAKER PRO ADVISOR - DECEMBER/JANUARY 1999

Finding in FileMaker

Learning the basics of a Find can really make a difference in your work.

By Jonathan Stars

FileMaker Pro is the number one selling standalone database in the world. Learning how to use it's powerful search capabilities can increase its' usefullness to you.
   Open a database you've already created or one of the templates that includes fields for people or companies and addresses. Make sure there are some records in the file with a mixture of states.
   While you're on the data entry layout choose Mode > Find and type MI in the state field. Click the Find button in the Status Area on the left side of the window. How many records did you find?
   Choose Select > Modify Last Find (a handy tool in itself!). Now choose Mode > New Request. (This is a tool I didn't even know was available for a couple of years using FMP!) Type Lansing (or another city of your choice) in the city field. Just above the Find button click on the box next to Omit then click the Find button. How many records came up this time? You just told FileMaker to find all customers in Michigan except those who live in Lansing.
   Choose Select > Find Omitted. Now FileMaker shows you all customers who live in all other states and Lansing, Michigan. You'll find hundreds of uses for Find and Omit once you get the hang of it.
   These are only a few of the basics. There are more amazing find capabilities in the program. Using FileMaker's advanced search capabilities can change your life. That may sound like a strong statement, but it is no less true. Read about Find in the users manual and try a few of the ideas. Even if you're fairly advanced, you'll be surprised what you'll learn.

 

© 1998 Jonathan Stars

** Please write to us - JStarsNearDataDesignPros.com ** That's not a real Email address! What Gives?

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