What is a Simple Key in DBMS?


simple key in dbms

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During your IT interview, you may be asked what a simple key in DBMS is. This could be a very simple question, but you will need to know to explain the core facts about simple keys. Let us tell you the most important details you need to mention to the interviewers to provide a complete answer.

What is a Simple Key in DBMS?

As opposed to primary keys, secondary keys, or foreign keys, which typically have one or several attributes, simple keys have one single attribute by definition. The simple key is used to identify one single entity uniquely.

Let’s take an example. You would use a simple key to define an employee number because it identifies a certain employee of a company uniquely. That number could not be used to define two employees; it would be separate for that particular employee.

Simple Keys in Database Tables

Simple keys are used in database tables to define one single attribute, which is usually one column. This column can identify one single row uniquely, which makes it a simple key. While other keys may be used to identify more than one column, simple keys may only be used for one.

Now that you have the main facts about simple keys, this is one interview question you will have no problems with. In fact, it is one of those questions you’re going to wish for. Good luck on your job meeting from the IT Interview Guide team!

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