Now that we have gone over database structures and field types, we can finally create our database. Once we have created our database, we can begin to go over how to interact with the MySQL server using PHP.

The process to create a database will vary depending on your host. However, the basic premise is the same. You create a database along with a MySQL username and password (choose a strong, randomized password). You then associate the MySQL user with the database. Once you have done that, you MySQL database now exists.

However, your database is basically useless, as you currently have no structure to store any data in. To begin adding in your structure, you’ll have to move over to a different tool, which is usually phpMyAdmin. Once you’re in phpMyAdmin, you can begin creating tables and fields in your database.

If you ever get stuck on what field type you should use, refer to the MySQL documentation for an explanation. Get your database all setup and ready for next week, when we’ll be getting into the integration between PHP and MySQL.