Sum up two existing fields and populate it into a 3rd existing field

[lcutliffe]

HI
Im working on a form in an Access 2007 database where I have two seperate fields on the form that I would like to add together and enter it into a third box on the same form upon submit. The fields I would like to add together are [labor] and [material]. When the submit button is pushed on the form I need the total to be entered into the field called [totalcost] and saved. I've read about using a query to do this and I created one that sums up labor and material successfully but when it comes to placing the [totalcost] field on the form, i'm not sure how to proceed. So far all I get is an error.

 

[randy700]

If you base your form on the query, you will have a bound field that displays the total cost.
No need to save it. The query will always recalculate when you open your form.

Randy

 

[PHV]

I'm with Randy: Why storing calculated/derived values ?

Hope This Helps, PH.
FAQ219-2884
FAQ181-2886

 

[lcutliffe]

Mainly for reporting purposes. Lets say I plugged the data base into a crystal report and I had to drag over a table and wanted to report sums of this derived field, is it going to be there? Thats what I wasnt sure about. If the form calculates it on the fly then where is that calculation if the form isnt open and your trying to pull those numbers into a report. I guess this is my inexperience showing through.

 

[PHV]

Do the calculations in a query

Hope This Helps, PH.
FAQ219-2884
FAQ181-2886

 

[randy700]

Just like the form, a report can (and should) be based on a query.

Randy