One of the most important ideas in IB Computer Science is understanding why databases exist. This is explained by comparing flat file systems with databases. Many students can describe both, but struggle to clearly explain why databases are superior for most real-world applications.
IB examiners reward students who can make direct comparisons and justify the use of databases based on efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
What Is a Flat File?
A flat file stores data in a single table or file, usually in a simple format such as:
- Text files
- CSV files
- Spreadsheets
In a flat file:
- All data is stored together
- Each record contains multiple fields
- There are no formal relationships between data items
Flat files are easy to create and understand, which makes them useful for small-scale or simple data storage.
Limitations of Flat Files
As data grows, flat files become inefficient.
Common problems include:
- Data duplication – the same data is stored repeatedly
- Data inconsistency – duplicated data may not match
- Limited searching – complex queries are difficult
- Poor scalability – performance degrades as data grows
- Weak multi-user support – difficult to manage simultaneous access
In IB exams, these limitations are often the key reason databases are introduced.
What Is a Database?
A database stores data in a structured and organised way, typically across:
- Multiple related tables
- Defined fields and records
- Enforced rules and constraints
Databases are managed by a Database Management System (DBMS), which controls how data is accessed and modified.
This structure allows databases to handle:
- Large datasets
- Multiple users
- Complex queries
Advantages of Databases Over Flat Files
Databases solve the problems of flat files by providing:
- Reduced data redundancy
- Improved data consistency
- Efficient searching and querying
- Better security and access control
- Support for concurrent users
Databases are designed to scale, making them suitable for real-world systems such as:
- School information systems
- Banking systems
- Online services
Comparing Flat Files and Databases
Strong IB answers compare them directly:
- Flat files
- Simple and easy to set up
- Suitable for small datasets
- Prone to duplication and errors
- Databases
- Structured and organised
- Suitable for large datasets
- Efficient and reliable
The key difference is structure and control.
When Flat Files Are Still Useful
Flat files are still appropriate when:
- Data is small and simple
- There is only one user
- Relationships between data are minimal
IB students should recognise that databases are not always necessary.
How This Appears in IB Exams
Students may be asked to:
- Compare flat files and databases
- Justify the use of a database
- Identify problems with flat file systems
- Apply concepts to a scenario
Clear justification earns higher marks.
Common Student Mistakes
Students often:
- Say databases are always better without explanation
- Ignore data duplication
- Forget multi-user issues
- Describe differences too vaguely
Specific comparisons score higher.
Final Thoughts
Flat files and databases both store data, but they are designed for very different purposes. Flat files are simple but limited, while databases are structured, efficient, and scalable.
Understanding why databases are preferred in most real-world systems allows IB Computer Science students to explain data management decisions clearly and confidently — exactly what examiners expect.
