What is the purpose of a query in Access?

The purpose of a query in Access is to retrieve specific data from one or more tables. Queries allow users to search for and extract data based on defined criteria, making it easier to analyze and view specific subsets of information. This capability is essential for managing and manipulating large datasets, as it provides a way to filter and organize data exactly as needed, without altering the underlying tables.

While there are tools in Access for calculating totals (which relates to reports), formatting database tables, and creating user-friendly data entry forms, these functions are distinct from the primary role of a query. Queries focus specifically on the retrieval and presentation of data, serving as a foundational aspect of database management and analysis in Access.