Tutorial

FileMaker Pro basics 9
Imagine that your database has a Tasks table in addition to the
Address Book table. A layout based on the Address Book table will
display fields and records from the Address Book table. A layout
based on the Tasks table will display fields and records from the
Tasks table.
FileMaker Pro basics
Unlike most word processing or spreadsheet programs,
FileMaker Pro saves your work automatically. Consequently, it’s
important to carefully consider your actions when making sweeping
changes to your files, especially when deleting records. Once records
are deleted, they are completely removed from your database.
As you will learn in lesson 11, you should back up your files on a
regular basis. Backups can save you many hours of unnecessary
work and worry in the event that your files become lost or damaged,
or records are inadvertently deleted.
About FileMaker Pro modes
When you work in FileMaker Pro, you work in one of four modes.
1 Use Browse mode to enter data and view records.
1 Use Find mode to locate a record or a group of records quickly.
1 Use Layout mode to specify how information will appear on the
screen or when you print it.
1 Use Preview mode to see what the pages will look like when you
print them.
Once you have opened a database, you can switch from one mode to
another using either the View menu, mode buttons, or the mode pop-
up menu at the bottom of the application window.
For more information
For more information on FileMaker Pro basic concepts, see chapter 1
of the
FileMaker Pro User’s Guide.
You can also find comprehensive information about procedures and
concepts in FileMaker Pro Help.
To access FileMaker Pro Help:
Choose Help menu > FileMaker Pro Help.
Name of
layout
Number of
the current
record
Fields
Filename
Mode
buttons
Current mode
(Browse)