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Check the query type

Make sure you aren’t trying to edit the data returned by a Crosstab, Union, Pass-Through or Data Definition query.

Look for aggregate functions

You can’t edit the data returned by a Totals query, or a query that uses other aggregate functions such as MIN, MAX, or AVG.

Aggregate functions combine the values from multiple records, and if you try to change an aggregated value, Access doesn’t know which source field to update, so it doesn’t let you change anything.

Note, too, that in the video I said “aggregated function” but I meant “aggregated value.”

Check query properties

With the query in Design view, click Properties. Make sure the Unique Values property is set to No, and the Recordset Type property shows Dynaset.

Look for subqueries

Specifically, look for subqueries that are part of the initial Select statement. For example:

SELECT [Order Date], (SELECT MAX([Order Date])

Adding the subquery to the parent query prevents you from editing data. Try these solutions:

  • In the query designer, clear the Show checkbox if you don’t need to see the field in your result.

  • Replace the subquery with a domain aggregate function such as DMIN or DMAX.

  • Move the subquery out of the first Select statement.

See also

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