Add SD column to an existing Access database with averages

[Annerb]

I have a database containing an average column. I need to add a column of data listing the SD. How to I add this column and make sure each value is matched up with the right site? The averages database is in Access. The data containing the SD is currently in Excel. Each file contains the unique ID for each site.

[Rabbit]

How to I add this column

Go into design view of the table and add the column.

and make sure each value is matched up with the right site?

Import your SD data into a new table. Join to average table on the unique ID and do an update query.

[Annerb]

Do I go straight to making an Update Query or do I have to join these tables? I don't understand how to set up my query... Could I use the Append feature?

[NeoPa]

It sounds like you're trying to make a database work like a spreadsheet rather than getting the extra benefits of the database (See Database Normalisation and Table Structures).

I would suggest (very strongly) that neither the Average nor the Standard Deviation of your data should be stored at all, but simply produced as and when necessary using a query (which is easily done with the functions available to you).

[Rabbit]

@Neo, I believe they do not have access to the underlying data that makes up the averages and sd. But that is just an assumption on my part.

@Annerb, you can join tables and update in the same query. You would not use an append, that would only add records.

[NeoPa]

Rabbit:
I believe they do not have access to the underlying data that makes up the averages and sd.

That would make an UPDATE query make good sense of course, and you're probably right. I wasn't able to decipher much of the question as so much seemed to be unexplained.

For detailed help with how an UPDATE query works see the Help pages found with the assistance of Finding Jet SQL Help.

[Annerb]

Thank you both for your replies. I'm new to Access so I haven't yet figured out differences in query functions and obviously didn't realize I left out some key details in my question.

@Neo I see your point about using databases to calculate Avg and SD. I can then export those values to Excel and manipulate, make graphs, etc there.

[NeoPa]

AnneRB:
I can then export those values to Excel and manipulate, make graphs, etc there.

Absolutely. Much of what Excel can do can also be done in Access of course, but certainly Excel has more options and is a more natural fit for complex portrayal of data.