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Keys identify records and relationships, while constraints tell the database which stored states are allowed. A primary key identifies each row, a foreign key validates a relationship, and other constraints enforce required or unique values and conditions. Database enforcement protects data even when different application paths write concurrently.

Normalization organizes tables so each fact is stored in an appropriate place and changes do not create inconsistent copies. The first three normal forms progressively address repeating groups, dependence on only part of a key, and indirect dependence through other non-key facts. This reduces update, insert and delete anomalies.

Keys identify records and relationships, while constraints tell the database which stored states are allowed. A primary key identifies each row, a foreign key validates a relationship, and other constraints enforce required or unique values and conditions. Database enforcement protects data even when different application paths write concurrently.

Normalization organizes tables so each fact is stored in an appropriate place and changes do not create inconsistent copies. The first three normal forms progressively address repeating groups, dependence on only part of a key, and indirect dependence through other non-key facts. This reduces update, insert and delete anomalies.

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