"Either can be an efficient way of finding the information you
want, especially when you're dealing with thousands of records. Of
course, in the hands of an expert, queries can be far more precise
-- and complicated -- than a filter, but, if you are using
OpenOffice.org Base, then the analogy generally holds true,
although queries are slightly more complicated than filters to set
up. When saved in Base for long term use, a query becomes a
view.
"You can create a query in any database set up in Base. In fact,
Base offers you three different ways to write a query: in a wizard,
which guides you through the process; in Design View, which
provides a minimal amount of guidance, and in SQL View, which
provides no guidance at all. If you are a database expert, you
might prefer Design or SQL View. However, like the Function Wizard
in Calc or the introductory wizard in Impress, Base's Query Wizard
has the advantage of helping you organize your thoughts while
requiring no previous knowledge. For most people or purposes, there
is no reason not to use the wizard."