Database normalization is a database design process used to regulate data storage methods in relational databases, and to ensure data integrity. This process aims at optimizing the data by reducing redundancy, maintaining data integrity, and facilitating more effective querying of the database. Database normalization is typically achieved through the application of a series of normal forms. Starting from the first normal form (1NF), it progresses to higher normal forms (2NF, 3NF, BCNF, etc.). Each normal form specifies a particular data arrangement and dependency relationship. These normal forms aim to avoid data redundancy, partition data, and eliminate unnecessary dependencies between relationships. As a result, database design becomes more efficient, maintenance is easier, and querying processes are faster.
