Normalization is the process of organizing data in a database to minimize redundancy and improve data integrity. It involves structuring a relational database in accordance with a series of normal forms to ensure that their dependencies are properly enforced by database integrity constraints. Normalization works through a series of stages called normal forms, which apply to individual relations. The main objectives of normalization are to:
- Reduce data redundancy
- Improve data integrity
- Simplify database design
- Improve query performance
- Facilitate easier database maintenance
Normalization rules divide larger tables into smaller tables and link them using relationships. The different types of normal forms include:
- First Normal Form (1NF)
- Second Normal Form (2NF)
- Third Normal Form (3NF)
- Boyce-Codd Normal Form (BCNF)
Each normal form describes how to get rid of specific problems such as data redundancy and insertion, deletion, and update anomalies. Normalization is critical to the successful implementation of a database management system that meets the data requirements of an enterprise system.
