Create Tables

Tables are the foundation of every database schema. Each table stores information about a specific entity, such as users, products, orders, or categories.

In Qubase, tables are created directly on the ERD Canvas and become the building blocks of your database design.

Before you begin

Before creating a table, ensure that you have:

• Created a Database Schema
• Opened the ERD Canvas
• Selected the appropriate database model type

[!NOTE] A Database Schema can contain multiple tables connected through relationships.

Create a new table

To create a table:

1. Open the ERD Canvas.
2. Click Add Table from the toolbar.
3. Enter a table name.
4. Click Create.

The new table is immediately added to the canvas.

Table information

Each table contains basic information that identifies it within the schema.

Naming tables

Choose names that clearly describe the data stored in the table.

Recommended

Users
Products
Orders
Categories
Invoices
Payments

Avoid

Table1
Data
Test
MyTable
ABC

[!TIP] Use singular or plural naming consistently throughout your database project.

Table layout

Each table displayed on the ERD Canvas includes:

┌─────────────────────────┐
│ Customers               │
├─────────────────────────┤
│ PK customer_id          │
│ full_name              │
│ email                  │
│ phone                  │
└─────────────────────────┘

As columns are added, the table automatically expands to display the new fields.

Moving tables

After creating a table, you can reposition it anywhere on the canvas.

Simply:

1. Select the table.
2. Drag it to a new location.
3. Release the mouse button.

Relationship lines automatically adjust to the new position.

Renaming a table

To rename a table:

1. Select the table.
2. Open the Properties Panel.
3. Update the table name.
4. Save the changes.

The updated name is reflected immediately throughout the database model.

Duplicating a table

To create a copy of an existing table:

1. Select the table.
2. Right-click the table.
3. Choose Duplicate.

The duplicated table contains the same structure but can be modified independently.

Deleting a table

To remove a table:

1. Select the table.
2. Press Delete or choose Delete from the context menu.
3. Confirm the action.

[!WARNING] Deleting a table also removes any relationships connected to it. This action may affect the integrity of your database design.

Organizing large schemas

As your project grows, organizing tables becomes increasingly important.

Recommended practices include:

• Group related tables together.
• Separate modules by business domain.
• Leave enough spacing between tables.
• Minimize crossing relationship lines.
• Use consistent table naming conventions.

A well-organized ERD is easier to understand and maintain.

Best practices

• Use descriptive table names.
• Create one table for each business entity.
• Avoid duplicate tables.
• Keep related tables close together.
• Review your table structure before adding relationships.

Next steps

Now that your tables have been created, continue with:

• Columns and Constraints
• Relationships
• Cardinality