An Elementary Introduction to Relational Database Theory (UMAP)

This module introduces three major areas of relational theory and how they address fundamental questions of practical importance:
Normalization in Database Design: What's the most logical way to store information in a database? (Section 3)
Algebraic Query Specification and Optimization: What the best way to obtain specific information from a database? (Section 4)
Modification with Integrity Maintenance: What's the ideal way to process changes in the information stored in a database? (Section 5)
This module presents elementary concepts using informal explanations, technical definitions, and simple illustrations involving a small real-life database that describes the start-up activity of a group of Chicagoland musicians. In keeping with the elementary level of this module, the exercises check primarily that the beginning concepts and computations have been understood. Harder exercises are designated with a *.

Table of Contents:

INTRODCUTION

BASIC DEFINITIONS

NORMALIZATION IN DATABASE DESIGN

ALGEBRAIC QUERY SPECIFICATION AND OPTIMIZATION

MODIFICATION WITH INTEGRITY MAINTENANCE

MOVING BEYOND THE ELEMENTARY

SOLUTIONS TO THE EXERCISES

REFERENCES

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

ABOUT THE AUTHORS