How to Learn Microsoft Access

Microsoft Access is a database management software for managing large quantities of information. This program is primarily a productivity tool used across industries to assist businesses and entrepreneurs in managing data, budgets, and projects. The number of options for learning Microsoft Access might be overwhelming at first glance. There are books, video tutorials, classes, and more to choose from; it all depends on your learning style and personal preferences.

Here, we’ll discuss the various methods of learning Microsoft Access so you can make an informed decision about how you’d like to get started.

What is Microsoft Access?

Microsoft Access is a database management software. Access is part of the Microsoft 365 suite and is standard for business and enterprise users. Like Microsoft Excel, Access lets users view and manage data. However, Access is more powerful than Excel and can process more data at once. While Excel is appropriate for viewing and managing data in a spreadsheet format, Access is more suitable for managing entire databases. 

Access allows users to create several tables containing their own data that need to be tracked separately and connect those tables. These connected tables make up a database. And, just like with tables, users can connect databases to track relationships. Within Access, users can also query databases to find the necessary information. As with Excel, users can easily export reports from data within Access to create reports for printing and sharing with stakeholders. These multiple features included in Access allow entrepreneurs and businesses to gather large amounts of data, gain insights and take action on operations, projects, and performance.

Read more about what Microsoft Access is and why you should learn it. 

What Can You Do with Microsoft Access?

Microsoft Access is used to build simple database management systems where entrepreneurs and businesses can store large amounts of data. Users can create tables for managing data and can connect those tables to track relationships. The insights gained from these relationships allow businesses to acquire valuable insights regarding their financials, inventory and sales, productivity, and project management, among others. Databases also function for purposes such as keeping track of employee information or managing client/server forms.

When it comes to sharing data, Access makes it easy to compile data and format reports. Data converts into colorful charts and graphs, making this visualization of data helpful for presenting insights to stakeholders. Charts are also customizable to your needs, including interactive elements. Reports have a variety of options as well. They can be printed, exported to another file or program, or emailed as an attachment.

Access' simple interface and built-in tools make it an excellent resource for small businesses and entrepreneurs who may need more application-building experience. Access can also create desktop or web applications. Developers can create macros, build modules, and develop their own code libraries. Access is also helpful for larger companies that want to develop their own applications without the cost of outsourcing.

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In-Person Microsoft Access Training

There are a number of perks to in-person training. Being in a physical classroom can eliminate the distractions an individual might find when learning online from home. A physical classroom also offers more direct engagement with the instructor. Thus students may feel more inclined to ask for help, or it may be easier for a teacher to identify when a student is struggling. In-person learning also allows students to engage with and learn from each other in a set environment.

There are a number of in-person Microsoft Access training options. These classes are short, often lasting only a day, and teach both beginner and advanced techniques. Noble Desktop’s Microsoft Access Level I course covers all the essentials of the program the average user needs to know. The Microsoft Access Level II course dives into expert techniques and little-known tips and shortcuts. These courses can be taken in person or live online.

Live Online Microsoft Access Training

The main perk of live online training is its availability. Students can learn from anywhere they find convenient, provided they have a reliable internet connection. This removes the commute time from a student's schedule and allows them to learn in an environment they find comfortable. Online courses also often offer more flexible programs than in-person classrooms, which work well for parents and workers with busy schedules. In terms of engagement, live online classes try to replicate physical classrooms with hands-on projects and live instructors and students interacting together in real time.

There are a number of live online Microsoft Access training options. Available classes teach both beginner and advanced techniques. Noble Desktop’s Microsoft Access courses can be taken in person in NYC or live online from anywhere. The Microsoft Level I course covers all the essentials of the program that an average user needs to know, while the Level II course dives into expert techniques and tricks.

Free Online Courses & Tutorials

If you are still deciding whether to dive into an entire Microsoft Access course, you can search for an online introduction to Microsoft Access through Youtube, Coursera, Udemy, and other skill-sharing websites. These free courses are usually short, lasting less than two hours. They often feature Microsoft Access fundamentals, such as how to create forms and tables and manage data. Some courses even teach advanced tips and tricks. 

However, many free courses teach older versions of programs. While most of Microsoft Access's features are consistent through subsequent iterations, newer versions of the program usually possess previously unseen features or place features in different locations. With free resources, it can also be impossible to verify whether the information is quality or correct. While free online classes can be valuable and cost-effective for pure beginners, they aren't ideal for professionals looking to learn comprehensive Microsoft Access skills to advance their careers.

Read about more free Microsoft Access videos and online tutorials.

On-Demand Microsoft Access Classes

On-demand and self-paced Microsoft Access training options are often free and ideal for students who prefer to learn at their own pace or are too busy to attend regular training. On-demand training on beginner and advanced techniques for Microsoft Access is available through skill-sharing websites such as YouTube, Udemy, and Coursera. However, a disadvantage of this method is that students must rely on self-motivation to progress through the material. They also lack an instructor to turn to for guidance if they encounter any problems. Free training is also often out of date.

Those interested in learning Microsoft Access might take advantage of on-demand resources for Microsoft Excel. These free resources can be an excellent introduction for establishing familiarity before diving into additional training or transitioning to a different training method. Since the average untrained individual is rarely familiar with spreadsheets and data calculations, learning the basics of Excel can be a great stepping stone to understanding Microsoft Access.

Which Learning Method is Right for Me?

With so many different resources available to help beginners learn Microsoft Access, you might be unsure about which one is best for you. Everyone has different learning styles and preferences, and you can experiment with multiple tools to see which one feels right for you. One of the great things about directing your own learning is that you get to pick which combination of tools you prefer; you don’t have to stick with what a teacher chooses.

It’s also essential to consider your current schedule before selecting a learning method. If you have a lot of responsibilities like a full-time job or family commitments, you may not be able to devote time to a structured course that requires you to attend at the same time every day. In this case, a self-paced class or video tutorials on Microsoft Access may be better suited to you since you can access them when your schedule allows. On the other hand, those with a more flexible schedule may prefer a structured course offered in-person or live online. Ultimately, only you can decide.

Why Learn Microsoft Access?

Microsoft Access is an information management tool that allows businesses to store and gain insights from large amounts of data. Insight gathering is vital for modern businesses as it enables them to understand what does and doesn't work within their operations and decide how to best move forward. Learning tools such as Microsoft Access is essential for any profession that works with data, such as Data Analysts, Project Managers, and Accountants. Microsoft Access possesses additional features, such as web and desktop application creation and client/server database management.

Microsoft Office programs are popular across businesses and industries worldwide. Even if your desired profession doesn't require proficiency in Access, you are likely to encounter and be expected to know how to use at least one Microsoft program at your job. Therefore, proven ability in Microsoft Access will likely help job seekers stand out among the competition as it demonstrates your motivation to learn new skills and advance your career. 

Read more about why you should learn Microsoft Access. 

Level of Difficulty, Prerequisites, & Cost 

Microsoft Access can be somewhat tricky to learn. Individuals who have experience with spreadsheets will find the functions of Access simple to understand. However, the average person needs to gain such knowledge and may struggle with the program. Though Microsoft Access is simple enough to learn that most beginner courses do not require prerequisites, individuals with Microsoft Excel experience will find the process easier.

There are a number of free online resources to get started with Microsoft Access. These include introductory courses and tutorials on YouTube, Microsoft.com, and skill-sharing websites such as Udemy and Coursera. Through these websites, beginners wishing to learn Microsoft Access can do so with minimal cost. However, free resources are often outdated and don't feature expert techniques.

Those wishing to become experts in Microsoft Access to advance their careers will require professional training. Professional courses in Microsoft Access generally cost around $200-$300 and feature multiple levels, such as beginner, advanced, and expert. Due to the ease of learning Microsoft Access, these courses usually last only a day or two.

Read about how difficult it is to learn Microsoft Access.

Learn Microsoft Access with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

In today's busy world, live online learning can be a fast, engaging, and cheaper alternative to in-person classes. With live, hands-on training at Noble Desktop, Microsoft Access is easy to learn. Noble Desktop's classes are small, taught by expert instructors, and include free retake options.

Noble Desktop offers Microsoft Access classes at two levels. Microsoft Access Level I teaches beginners the fundamentals of the program. Students learn how to work with data and create tables and forms. Microsoft Access Level II teaches advanced techniques such as data validation, table structure improvement, and advanced reporting. Students build their own databases and learn efficiency tips and tricks. 

The Microsoft Access Bootcamp covers both Microsoft Access Level I and II. This class is ideal for beginners who wish to master the program in one comprehensive course. Students interested in becoming certified in Microsoft Access may want to attend the Access Specialist Certification Program. This course is offered through NYIM, an affiliate school to Noble Desktop, and combines Microsoft Access Level I and II with Access Certification exam training. 

Key Insights

• In-person training features professional instructors and comprehensive learning.
• Live online training shares the benefits of in-person training without the commute!
• On-demand training allows you to work at your own pace but with little direction.
• Free courses and tutorials can be great resources to start your learning journey.
• Those looking to advance or start a new career would gain the most from professional training. 
• Ultimately, only you can choose the training method that is best for you.
• You can receive comprehensive Microsoft Access training through an in-person or live online course with Noble Desktop.