Resetting the Index of a ClarisWorks Database that Does Not Sort Correctly (DB)

Issues with sorting and finding in a ClarisWorks database can be frustrating and difficult to troubleshoot. But like any database, ClarisWorks stores information in an index which can be reset.

This information was provided by Claris Corporation on 16 March 1998, and incorporated into Apple Computer's Tech Info Library.

If you determine that your ClarisWorks database is not sorting correctly, particularly if it's a sort that has worked correctly in the past, try the following steps:

1. Save a copy of the current file in case something goes wrong with the remaining steps.
2. Choose Define Fields... from the Layout menu .
3. Highlight the field that is not sorting correctly and change to a different type. (i.e. if field was of the type Date, select Text then click Modify)
4. Change field type back to original type.
5. Perform Sort.

Many times this will cause the index of the field to reset so that the records will sort correctly.
Published Date: Feb 18, 2012