Several of the posts in this thread talk about using a database to track information. This seems like the best way to go, but even though I am computer savvy, I do not have any experience creating a database.

Does anyone have any suggestions for learning how to build a simple database for this purpose? Are there any templates or examples available for download?

Until last year I was a professional database programmer. If we put our heads together and decide what we need in the database I'll be happy to build it and give it away to Café members.

That's an incredibly cool offer, Jonesy! Here's my list (and is it possible to build the database in Excel, so that it's cross-platform?):

- Name of trick
- Source (magazine, tape, book, invented by self)
- Sleights required

So far, that's all I can think of...then again, I'm a simple man with simple needs.

That would be fantastic! And a very generous offer!

I would also like to see:

- ability to categorize (e.g., children's show, etc.)
- props required
- notes (e.g., outline of routine, patter, etc.)

OK I'll come back to this thread in about a week and see what we've got. Then I'll start work.

I will build it as a separate entity so no need to worry about licenses for Access or SQL or anything, it will work without any other software.

I can't promise it will work with any operating system except Windows but I will try to ensure that it works with every version of Windows from 98 onwards.

Also I will probably make a prototype for you guys to play with before doing the real work!

"Aaugh," say us Mac guys...."aaugh!" If you know Java, any chance of building an applet?

AAAAAAAH !
Not the "what about us mac users" again ?????
Just kidding.
Jones2cii, You're awesome, thanks for your kind offer. I hope it is going well and i am looking forward to what you come up with.
I know my files are getting waaay behind too, I have quite a few more things to add there so it might be a good time to switch to a different system.

GlenD

I also agree to the notebook idea. When I first started, I began to keep track in a hardback sketchbook. Everything I've learned goes into it. Along with sketches I make and articles and pictures I find. I've taped every set of instructions I've ever gotten with a trick into the book. And every deck of cards I use, I glue the jokers in the book. If anyone ever found this notebook, I'd be screwed!

I just use windows notepad and have categories (card,coin,rope,mental). Then i list the name and the sleights used next to the name in parenthesis.

hope this helps

Steve, do you have a website? That Supports ASP pages?

I don't know if you are on the About forum for magic, someone created an access database, and I was thinking about making it web based?