This course provides a deep dive into functional dependencies and normalization in DBMS, equipping learners with the skills to design robust and optimized relational databases. Starting with an introduction to DBMS and the limitations of file-based systems, the course explains the different types of keys, including super keys, candidate keys, and primary keys. Learners explore functional dependencies, Armstrong’s axioms, and the closure of attributes, gaining practical knowledge to identify candidate keys in complex relations.

Normalization is covered extensively, beginning with the need for normalization and progressing through 1NF, 2NF, 3NF, and BCNF, including examples and problem-solving. Advanced topics include identifying the highest normal form of a relation, dependency-preserving decomposition, and lossless join decomposition. Learners also tackle practical exercises to reinforce concepts such as canonical covers, minimal covers, and decomposing relations into 2NF and 3NF while ensuring dependency preservation and lossless joins.

By the end of this course, students will confidently analyze functional dependencies, apply normalization rules, and design well-structured relational databases that minimize redundancy and maintain data integrity.