How to Find the Maximum Date in Access Without CASE Statements?

Finding the Maximum Date in Access: A Guide

Microsoft Access doesn't directly support CASE statements like some other database systems. Attempts to use them will result in errors. However, you can achieve the same results using the built-in IIF() and Switch() functions.

Using the IIF() Function

The IIF() function provides conditional logic. Its structure is:

<code class="language-sql">IIF(condition, true_result, false_result)</code>

For example, to find the maximum date between two fields (LASTSERVICEDATE and [Last CP12 Date]), you would use:

<code class="language-sql">IIF(dbo_tbl_property.LASTSERVICEDATE > Contour_dates.[Last CP12 Date], dbo_tbl_property.LASTSERVICEDATE, Contour_dates.[Last CP12 Date])</code>

This returns LASTSERVICEDATE if it's greater; otherwise, it returns [Last CP12 Date].

Employing the Switch() Function

For more complex scenarios, the Switch() function offers a multi-conditional approach:

<code class="language-sql">Switch( expr1, value1, expr2, value2, ..., exprN, valueN )</code>

Each expr is evaluated sequentially. If an expr is true, its corresponding value is returned. Importantly, Access evaluates all expressions, even after a match is found. Be mindful of potential errors or unexpected behavior due to this characteristic.

Remember to adapt these examples to your specific field and table names. For finding the maximum date across multiple columns or rows, more advanced SQL techniques like MAX() within subqueries or aggregate functions might be necessary.

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