Microsoft Access: Create an AutoLookup query to fill in a form

You can reduce typing time by basing your Access forms on AutoLookup queries. For example, let’s say you need to develop an Order form that includes fields from both the Customers table and Orders table. Rather than creating the form from these tables, you can base the form on an AutoLookup query that will automatically fill in the customer information once the CustomerID is entered.

1. Create a new query with the Customers and Orders tables.
2. Add the CustomerID field (that joins both tables) from the Orders table into the query design grid.
3. From the Customers table, add the fields you want to be filled in by the query, such as Name and Billing Address fields.
4. Add any additional fields from the Orders table as needed.
5. After running and testing the query, create an Order-entry form based on this query.

When the user enters the CustomerID to enter a new order, Access automatically fills in the data from the Customers table.

If you have any questions regarding this tip or need help implementing it in your own projects, contact Ranelle Maltas, Application Support Associate, at 472-0585 or e-mail at rmaltas2@unl.edu.