Working with Foreign Keys

This lesson explains how to use foreign keys to make sure valid data is entered and how to create foreign keys using the different techniques available in Management Studio. Foreign keys are an essential part of database design, definitely worth learning!

Andy Warren is a software trainer focusing on SQL Server, a member of the PASS Board of Directors, and a principal in this site - SQLShare.com.

Leonard Peoples on 10/13/2009

Very nice. Sometime we need reminders of the simple things. Thanks. Keep 'em coming.

Travis on 10/13/2009

As you pointed out, database diagrams are not really a good way to add FK's although you can do it that way, it can be misleading and dangerous.. Add them the old fashioned way instead. Don't show people tricky ways to shoot themselves in the foot, they just might do it.. :)

Thad Moorer on 10/14/2009

Video is efficient and effective. Gives you as much detail as needed while keeping you interested and not bored with superfluous information.

Boyd Petrie on 10/14/2009

I know this is probably superfluous and beyond the scope of this video, but it would be nice to also show how this would operate inside an application (if a city is entered in an app by a user, what do they see when SQL Server's FK relationship rejects the change?) But keep up the good work!