Normalization
The chapter covers the principles of relational database design with a focus on normalization, aiming to minimize data redundancy and enhance data integrity. It describes various types of anomalies caused by data redundancy, outlines functional dependencies, and introduces normal forms (1NF, 2NF, 3NF, BCNF, 4NF, and 5NF). Furthermore, it explores the implications of denormalization as a strategy for performance optimization in certain scenarios.
Sections
Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.
What we have learnt
- Normalization is essential in relational database design to reduce data redundancy and anomalies.
- Functional dependencies form the basis for understanding how to decompose tables into normal forms.
- Different normal forms address various data anomalies, leading to more structured and efficient databases.
- Denormalization can be beneficial in certain contexts to improve query performance, although it carries risks of increased data redundancy.
Key Concepts
- -- Normalization
- A systematic approach to structuring database tables to minimize data redundancy and improve data integrity.
- -- Functional Dependency
- A constraint that describes the relationship between attributes, dictating how tables should be decomposed to achieve higher normal forms.
- -- Anomalies
- Problems arising from data redundancy in a database, including insertion, deletion, and update anomalies.
- -- Normal Forms
- Guidelines in relational database design aimed at reducing redundancy and improving integrity, with levels including 1NF, 2NF, 3NF, BCNF, 4NF, and 5NF.
- -- Denormalization
- The process of intentionally introducing controlled redundancy into a database schema to improve query performance.
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.