Read fields and records in a database table
Distinguish a field from a record and count each correctly in a single-table database.
Exam scope and assessment notes
This sequence follows Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science 0984, 2026–2028 syllabus Version 4, Topic 9. It covers single-table databases only and the specified SELECT, FROM, WHERE, ORDER BY, SUM, COUNT, AND and OR content. The official specimen also demonstrates NOT in a filter. Multi-table joins, GROUP BY, database implementation and the separate 2029–2031 syllabus are not mapped here. Practice is original, self-checked and does not award an official Cambridge grade. Full timed papers and human subject-teacher review remain outstanding. Cambridge states that 0984 has the same 2026–2028 subject content as 0478, with 9–1 grading. In June and November, Cambridge lists 0984 in Administrative zone 3 and for centres in Oman and the UAE. Confirm availability for your centre and exam series with Cambridge International. The separately published 2029–2031 syllabus changes to Python 3 only and removes pseudocode; this 2026–2028 route does not cover those changes.
Before you begin
- Be able to read a small table and compare values. Each lesson introduces the database and SQL terms it uses.
Work on paper. Try each question before revealing help, and explain why your method works.
Quick readiness check
Which part of a table is a field?
What you will learn
- Identify fields as named columns
- Identify records as rows about individual items
- Explain how a table stores related data
A field describes one kind of data
A database table organises related information into rows and columns. Each column is a field, such as BookingID, LearnerName or BookingDate.
A field has a name and a type. All values in that column should match the meaning and format the field is intended to store.
A record describes one item
Each row is one record containing values for the fields. A booking record may contain one ID, one learner name, a course code and a date.
When counting, do not include the header row as a record. The heading row names fields; the remaining rows hold records.
Pause and explain
A table has six column headings and ten rows of data. How many records does it have?
Worked example
A table has column headings BookingID, LearnerName, CourseCode and Paid, followed by 8 data rows. How many fields and records are shown?
Show the worked solution
- Count the headings to find the fields.
- There are four headings.
- Count the data rows, excluding the heading row.
Answer There are 4 fields and 8 records.
Try a topic test
Choose Easy, Normal or Difficult. Save your answers and open worked review after finishing.
Test this topic →From guided practice to a new situation
Write your answer and reasoning first. Use a hint only if you are stuck. The model solution is for self-checking; your written work is not automatically marked.
A table has headings ID, Title, Date and SoldOut, with 5 performances beneath them. State the number of fields and records.
Give me a hint
Count headings separately from data rows.
Compare my reasoning
- There are four column headings.
- Each performance occupies one row.
- There are five data rows.
4 fields and 5 records.
Look for these in your work
- Fields counted
- Records counted
A learner says that the first row of values is a field. Correct the explanation.
Give me a hint
A field runs vertically through a column.
Compare my reasoning
- A field is one named column.
- A record is one horizontal row of values.
- The first data row is a record, not a field.
The first row is a record; a field is a named column such as Title.
Look for these in your work
- Field definition
- Record definition
A single-table database stores 12 library loans. It has LoanID, MemberID, BookCode and DueDate. Explain how the table represents the loans.
Give me a hint
Use one row per loan and one column per attribute.
Compare my reasoning
- Each heading represents a field.
- Each loan has one record with values across those fields.
- Twelve loans produce twelve data records.
The table has four fields and twelve records, with one record for each loan.
Look for these in your work
- Table structure
- Record-to-item mapping
Common mistakes
- Counting the header row as a record
- Calling a row a field
- Treating a table as several unrelated lists
What can you explain now?
In a table, what is a record?
Compare with the explanation
One row of related values about an item
The row combines one value from each field for that item.
After trying it yourself, choose your next review. This is your self-assessment.
Your review choice appears on Today. Sign in to sync it across devices.
Make it stick
What does a table's header row tell you?
If you needed the solution, close it and solve the problem again from a blank page. A correct answer is stronger when you can explain the reason for each step.