Weekly Computer Tip # 256
17 January 2009


Display two or more tables side-by-side on the desktop
(Access 2003-2007)

In tip 241 you learned that Microsoft Access 2007 provides a new way of working with your tables, forms, reports, and queries. Instead of opening each object in a separate, overlapping window, all databases created in version 2007 now show each open object in separate tabs and - if you want - you can turn this on for databases created in previous versions of Access (see tip_241.php).

But not working with "Tabbed Documents" has its advantage as well, as you can easily display two or more tables (or queries) side-by-side.

Here's how (in Access 2007)

  1. If necessary, turn the tabbed option off (the reverse of what's described in tip 241: tip_241.php)
  2. Open the objects (tables, queries etc) you want to display side-by-side.
  3. Click on the Switch Windows button in the Window group on the Home tab.
  4. Choose Tile Vertically or Tile Horizontally from the drop-down menu.

In Access 2003 you simply select Tile Horizontally or Tile Vertically from the Windows menu.

By the way, if you've just upgraded to the latest version of Microsoft Office and need help getting the most out of the new system, why not book a course? Not a lot of training companies offer Access 2007 courses as yet, because they say there isn't enough interest. But unlike other training companies we never cancel scheduled courses, even if we only get one or two takers, so act now and reserve your place for Friday 27 February (msaccintro2007.html) or Friday 6 March (msacc2007im.html).

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