How to Use OR in Microsoft Access Query [2026 Full Guide]

How to Use OR in Microsoft Access Query In this video, we show you exactly how to use OR in a Microsoft Access query to expand your search results and filter data based on multiple flexible conditions. Implementing OR logic allows database users to retrieve records that meet at least one of several specified criteria, rather than restricting outputs to rigid, simultaneous matches. Mastering this querying foundation is essential for generating comprehensive reports, isolating varied datasets, and extracting deep business intelligence from your relational databases. Configuring alternative criteria involves leveraging the dedicated grid layout within the design workspace to separate your conditions across distinct logical rows. We focus on the structural difference between combining criteria horizontally versus vertically, ensuring you can map out sophisticated data filters, prevent overlapping record exclusion, and maintain high query performance across large tables. Technical Specs: Software: Microsoft Access; Feature: Query Design & Criteria How to Use OR in Microsoft Access Query, Microsoft Access OR criteria, multiple criteria query Access, MS Access query OR logic, Microsoft Access, MS Access, query design grid Access, filter data Microsoft Access, database search criteria, Access query design tutorial, combine criteria MS Access, relational database filtering, setup OR condition Access, query expression builder, advanced data filtering Access