0
Normalization is a process in database design that organizes data into tables in a way that minimizes data redundancy and dependency. The goal of normalization is to create a structured design that is efficient for inserting, updating, and querying data. There are several normal forms, each with a specific set of rules for organizing data. First Normal Form (1NF) requires that each table have a primary key, and that each column in the table contains only atomic (indivisible) values. In other words, there should be no repeating groups of data in a column. Second Normal Form (2NF) builds on 1NF and requires that each non-primary key column in a table be functionally dependent on the primary key. This means that each column must be directly related to the primary key and not dependent on any other non-primary key column. Third Normal Form (3NF) builds on 2NF and requires that all non-primary key columns in a table be functionally independent of each other. This means that no non-primary key column should be dependent on another non-primary key column. There are also higher normal forms such as Boyce-Codd Normal Form (BCNF) and Fourth Normal Form (4NF), but they are less commonly used in practice. Normalization is important for maintaining data integrity and reducing data redundancy, which can lead to performance and data consistency issues. However, normalization can also make it more difficult to query data, and so it is important to find a balance between normalization and ease of data access. - Pranit Malhotra18-Jan-2023
