Filemaker Pro Lesson

Report Writing:

Creating a Basic Columnar Report

The report feature of Filemaker Pro makes it possible to view selected information from many database records based on particular criteria. The Report Wizard has streamlined the report creation process and automated the creation of a script for particular report designs.

Sample files needed for this lesson: Students.fp7

We will begin by creating a simple columnar report using the Report Wizard.

1. Open the sample file Students.fp7. Choose View -> Layout Mode.

2. Select Layouts -> New Layout/Report. Select the table Students and enter "Student List" in the "Layout Name" field.

3. Click on "Columnar List/Report" in the "Select a Layout Type" list.

4. Since this report does not include any special subsummary parts that require specific sorts, make sure the "Include In Layout Pop-Up Menu" checkbox is checked and click Next. This function makes the report title visible for selection from the layouts list in browse mode. However, if a report requires a specific sort or other preliminary actions, I recommend that the report be selectable only from a scripted button or menu item so the preliminary actions can be executed by script before the report can be viewed. During the report creation process, the "Include In Layout Pop-Up Menu" would not be checked.

5. We will not group data in this report, so select "Columnar List/Report" and click Next.

6. You will now choose the fields that you want to add to the "Student List" layout. In the list of fields in the left hand box, double click "Last Name", "First Name", "School Number", "Musical Instrument", and "Music Style". Click Next.

7. We will not sort this report. Just click Next.

8. In the left corner of the footer, select "Current Date" from the list of available items. In the right corner of the footer, select "Page Number" from the list of available items.

9. We have not selected to sort this report or do anything that requires preliminary actions so we do not need a script to view this information. Again, just click Next.

10. We simply want to view our finished report. Select "View in Preview Mode" then click Finish.

11. If you wish to resize or reposition any the fields, select View -> Layout Mode and make any changes you wish.

Simple lists are usually the most requested type of reports you will encounter. With Filemaker Pro 7, a user can right click on any column and choose to sort the report by Ascending or Descending field name.

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Last updated: 05/19/2005