Change the Field Size

The Field Size property determines the maximum size of information that can be stored in a text or number field. For example, if you set the size of a text field to 2, you could enter “MN” but not “Minnesota.” There are several reasons why you would want to change the size of a field:

• Changing the field size to only allow for what is necessary reduces data-entry errors.
• Access can process smaller field sizes more quickly.
• Smaller field sizes require less hard drive storage space.

While Field Size determines the maximum number of characters in a text field, in a numerical field, it determines the number type.

1. In Design View, select the field whose size you want to change.
2. Click the Field Size box and type or select the field size. If prompted, click Yes to complete the action.

   Be very careful when changing the Field Size of a field that already contains data. Access will truncate or delete data that is larger than the new field size.