Catching data entry errors

[DLG]

I have a data entry form with fields like date, clientID, etc and a subform to collect data on a particular "visit". I want to be able to catch when the user forgets to enter data in a particular field on the main form before tabbing into the subform. If there are missing fields I want to return focus to the date (or first field on the main form) along with a message telling them to correct the entry. What is the standard practice for accomplishing this? Should this be in the table validation? or field by field?
Thank you

 

[GComyn]

well... you can use the OnEnter sub on the subform control, and check to make sure that all of the fields you want information on are filled.

private sub MySubForm_Enter()
    if isnull(me.txtdate) then
        me.txtdate.setfocus
    endif
'enter other field checks here

end sub

This should work, but there may be a better way to do it.

 

[gwinn7]

For the main form, you can place your validation/business rule in the After_update event of each control.

Then when the user attempts to save the changes, you can call these After_Update events in your Form_AfterUpdate event. Actually, I have not done it that way. However, I can see potential problems if not coded properly.

Gary
gwinn7