How to Create Query in MS Access Step by Step

April 10, 2026·2 min read

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Here's how to create query in MS Access

Launch your Access database file that contains the data you want to query.
Navigate to the 'Create' tab in the ribbon menu at the top of the screen.
Click on 'Query Design' from the available query options.
Choose the tables or saved queries that contain the data you need for your query.
Press the 'Add' button to include your selected data sources in the query design.
View the table grids that display all available fields from your selected tables.
Double-click on each field name that you want to appear in your query results.
Press the 'Run' button (red exclamation point icon) to execute your query and see the results.
Close the query design window and provide a descriptive name when prompted to save your query.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Query Design and Query Wizard in Access?

Query Design gives you full control over creating queries manually by selecting fields and setting criteria yourself. Query Wizard guides you through the process step-by-step, making it easier for beginners but with less flexibility for advanced customization.

Can I modify a saved query after creating it in Access?

Yes, you can edit any saved query by right-clicking on it in the navigation pane and selecting 'Design View'. This opens the query design window where you can add or remove fields, change criteria, or modify relationships between tables.

Why would I use a query instead of just viewing the table directly?

Queries allow you to display only specific fields and records that meet certain criteria, making your data more manageable. You can also combine data from multiple tables, perform calculations, and sort results without changing your original table structure.