Question

I need to create an append query, that appends many records to a table. this table has a primary key, that is a sequential number. How do I make my append query, append records to the table and automatically assign the next sequential number for the primary key? I woudl need to run this query on a live multi-user MYSQL server throughout the day
thanks!

Answer 1

If the PK is a true auto-incremental field, you should be able to leave the PK out of your ‘append’ query. The table will automatically assign the next value in sequence to your data row(s) that you are inserting.

ex: If you have this data in table names

id    name
1     Ken
2     Jon
3     Steve

And you run this query

INSERT INTO names (name) VALUES ('Peter')

Your table should automatically assign id # 4 to Peter

If the sequential PK is maintained manually, I would suggest you alter that field to be a true auto-incremental field if at all possible, or create a new auto-increment field and drop the old one. Just make sure you update any other related tables before you drop the field.