Field (computer science)
part of a database record
In data hierarchy, a field (data field) is a variable in a record. A record, also known as a data structure, allows logically related data to be identified by a single name. Identifying related data as a single group is central to the construction of understandable computer programs. The individual fields in a record may be accessed by name, just like any variable in a computer program.
Each field in a record has two components. One component is the field's datatype declaration. The other component is the field's identifier.
Memory fields
Fields may be stored in random access memory (RAM). The following Pascal record definition has three field identifiers: firstName, lastName, and age. The two name fields have a datatype of an array of character.
Begin with the source’s own compact description: “Field (computer science)” is part of a database record. The dossier treats that line as a proposition to test through Field, computer and science, not as a finished interpretation.
Why this record matters
The phrase “part of a database record” supplies a clear boundary for inquiry. It also exposes the unanswered questions: who defined that boundary, when it became stable and which sources sit outside it.
Vocabulary and entity names are the principal evidence signals here, because they determine the precision of every later search. The source revision retrieved here is dated Jul 1, 2026. The linked authority identifier is Q1172412. None of the 0 selected statements returned an explicit reference.
A concise general-reference account can conceal disagreements about scope, terminology or the weight assigned to individual sources. The source lead contains qualifying language; that uncertainty should survive quotation, summary and reuse. Authority statements aid reconciliation but still require their own references, qualifiers and ranks to be checked.
How to read it
Use the entry as an orientation point, then follow its citations and revision history. Names, dates and institutional relationships should be checked against the original record.
- Subject orientation
- Search vocabulary
- Locating named sources
The closest primary source, responsible institution and strongest cited specialist reference.
Three-step research path
- Establish the record: confirm the title “Field (computer science)”, its source revision and the description used here.
- Expand the search: follow Field (computer science) primary sources, Field (computer science) archive and Field research across catalogues and specialist indexes.
- Test the account: compare the strongest cited source with the responsible institution’s current record and note any disagreement.
Questions for further research
- Which source most directly establishes the central claim about “Field (computer science)”?
- What terminology or title could unlock a more precise catalogue search?
- Which cited source is closest to the event, object or claim?
Search terms from this dossier
This entry incorporates text from “Field (computer science)” on English Wikipedia. Contributors are listed in the page history. Text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 License. Selected authority identifiers and statements are retrieved from Wikidata under CC0; their references and qualifiers remain part of the verification path.