option groups as text in reports (2000)

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I have a number of fields which use numbers for options – so I can use options groups for data entry. how can I make my report and/or queries show text entries instead = eg 1,2,3 translates as Expert, Intermediate, Novice for different course levels.

I can format boolean fields with no problem – but ;”smoker”;”nonsmoker” doesn’t seem to work for option groups!

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Create lookup tables with the text entries, e.g.

ID	Description
1	Expert
2	Intermediate
3	Novice

In the design view of the main data table, select the relevant field and click the Lookup tab. Set:
display control = combo box
row source type = table/query
row source = name of lookup table
number of columns = 2
column widths = 0″;1″

From now on, if you drag this field from the field list into a query grid or onto a report, it will be a combo box displaying the description.

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Due to the ability of the users I need it to be via buttons – that is why I have gone for option groups which mean I can use really big buttons – picking from a list or selecting a combo drop down is not going to be practical in this application. therefore I need a way of formating queries and reports so that they show the text equivalents.

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In your query, use the following expression where field1 = the field containing your numbers :

Level: Choose([Field1],"Expert","Itermediate","Novice")

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Even if you have a combo box in queries and reports to display the descriptions, you can still use an option group for easier data entry in forms.

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Thanks to both of you – I am using Choose in the short term – but am going to convert all my relevant fields to look up combo boxes as time permits!!!

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Combo boxes are the way to go for fast data entry, especially if there is a single letter that can determine the selection. In this way you don’t even have to use the mouse, all you need do is type the first letter then the enter key.
My 2 cents worth.
Pat

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