Works: Using a Formula to Propose a Default Value for a Field

In a Works database, text can be entered as a formula so that a proposed (default) entry appears in a field for every record.

To automate the process of entering the same text for every record in the database, the text can be entered as a formula. For example, use the following procedure if almost everyone in the database lives in California:

1. Add a field called State to the database.
2. Type ="CA" in the State field on the first record, or ="California", depending on the style wanted.
3. Switch to List view.
4. Start placing information in the other fields.

The State field will automatically insert CA or California every time information is entered into a record. If a different state needs to be entered, go to that cell and type the correct information. To remove the formula, in Works 2.0 and 3.0, go to one cell in that field, click Field from the Select menu, and then click Clear Formula from the Edit menu. In Works for Windows 95, go to one cell in that field, click Select Field from the Edit menu, and then Clear Field from the Edit menu.

NOTE: The text disappears from every cell in that field and that the formula is deleted.

For more information about how to perform this task in Works for Windows 95, see your Works printed documentation or online Help.

"Microsoft Works for Windows User's Guide," version 3.0, page 346

"Microsoft Works for Windows User's Guide," version 2.0, page 265