Control

A CONTROL is any element used to make up each section of a form or report (i.e., everything added to a form or report). Examples include a text box, a label, a list box, a picture, a graph, a subform, a page break, a line or shape, a command button, a toggle button, an option button, a check box, or an option group. CONTROLS typically display data, provide decoration, or let the user make choices.

Access provides three control object categories: a bound control, an unbound control, and a calculated control. A BOUND CONTROL is linked to a field in a table or query. An UNBOUND CONTROL displays information that does NOT change from record to record. A CALCULATED CONTROL is used to calculate values based on one or more fields (such as the current date or page number).

For the three control object categories, 18 controls exist. The 18 controls are: Pointer, Control Wizards, Label, Text Box, Option Group, Toggle Button, Option Button, Check Box, Combo Box, List Box, Command Button, Image, Unbound Object, Bound Object, Page Break, Subform, Line, and Rectangle.

The easiest way to add or modify controls to a form or report is to use the CONTROL WIZARD when in Design view.