2. Databases

A database is a collection of data or information which is held together in an organised or logical way.

Databases can either be paper based or computerised.

These can be as simple as a notebook which contains addresses sorted by surname or a birthday book with birthday reminders by month.

Other paper based databases can be much larger, for example, the Yellow Pages directory. The directory is organised by business type e.g.

Under each category are listed all of the local builders, sorted again alphabetically e.g.

You will come across computerised databases in every aspect of your life. Here are some examples with which you will be familiar:

Task: can you think of at least three other examples?

challenge see if you can find out one extra fact on this topic that we haven't already told you