This new edition of the bestseller dBASE III book demonstrates how to enter, manipulate and retrieve large volumes of data and develop customized application programs. With it readers learn how to group data, index, label and query files; specify range checking and input data manipulations; define screens; add field definitions to a data file; examine and change variables during program execution and store a history of executed commands.

This indispensable guide covers both the foundations and the more advanced topics such as command file development, debugging tools, and maximization of efficiency and performance. Also includes information on interfacing with other software.

First, the essential concepts of a database are covered briefly. Then, through step-by-step exercises, the function of entering, editing, searching, sorting, merging, changing and modifying records are laid out. Useful tips and many business examples are given in a straightforward style.