Script help two related tables

[kmac]

I created a database with 2 tables. The Ancestor Records table has several fields such as Surname, First Name, ID#, Relationship, etc. Its purpose is to provide me with a list of the documents I have scanned into the computer for each of my ancestors. It also contains a portal with included fields so that I can add to a listing of documents I scan into the computer.

The second table, Document Scans, has the same fields as AR (Surname, First Name, etc.) but also has a container field to hold the actual scanned document. A listing of that scan, and all others that pertain to that ancestor, ends up in the AR table via the portal.

So, the AR table contains the list of all scanned documents for each ancestor. The DS table contains the actual scanned image. So, each ancestor in the AR table could have many related records from the DS table that will show up as a list.

When I add a scan to the DS table, (say for John Jones) it does show up in the appropriate record (for John Jones) in the AR table. All is well except that everytime I add a new scan for an ancestor in the AR table, I have to manually enter the field values from the AR table (Surname, First Name, ID#, Relationship, and a few others.)

What I would like, is to find out how to set up a script from the AR table, that would not only create a new record in the DS table, but that will fill in all the fields for me so that all I have to do is add the scan.

I am new to FMP, so if anyone can set me on the right path, I’d appreciate it.

Thank you!

Kathy

[T-Square]

Well, you don't need those fields in the DS table. All you need there is the AR ID#. All the rest can be "pulled" in to the DS layout as you need it. Since the person info is only stored once in the AR table, you will always have the right info.

You might want to read up on basic relational database theory; the many resources out there (on the web, in books, etc.) can explain this fundamental concept of relational databases (and its power) in great detail.

David

[comment]

Drat, I have just answered the same question here. Please do not double-post.

[kmac]

T-Square ........Thank you for your help. I will read up on relational databases so that I can better understand the process. Think i’l go pick up a good book on FMP today.

Kathy

[kmac]

Comment ........ I AM sorry for the double post. I know better but my innate impatience to figure this all out got the better of me. Again, I’m sorry and I DO appreciate your help.

Kathy