Databases are a huge topic. And if you've never used them before- it may feel intimidating. But the core idea behind a database is very very simple. You want to store some value somewhere and later retrieve that value. - Databases provide a structured way to store and organize large amounts of data. They allow you to define tables with specific columns and data types, ensuring data integrity and consistency. - Databases support complex querying and data retrieval operations, making it easy to search, filter, and retrieve specific subsets of data based on various criteria. - Databases offer built-in mechanisms for data backup, recovery, and transaction management, ensuring data reliability and preventing data loss. ## Why Use a Database?