Databases & Data Storage
Column
Definition
In a database table, a column is a set of data values of a particular simple type, one for each row of the table. The columns provide the structure according to which the rows are composed.
Why It Matters
Columns define the attributes of the data being stored. Each column has a name and a specific data type (e.g., integer, string, date), which enforces data consistency.
Contextual Example
In an `Employees` table, you might have columns for `EmployeeID`, `HireDate`, and `Salary`. The `Salary` column would have a numeric data type to ensure only numbers are stored in it.
Common Misunderstandings
- A column is also known as an "attribute" or a "field".
- Defining the correct data type for a column is a key part of database design.