Both databases and spreadsheets can organise information in rows and columns, but they support different workflows. A spreadsheet combines cells, formulas, and flexible analysis. A database manages structured records and supports controlled retrieval and updates. A database commonly uses identifiers to distinguish records. Relationships can connect a learner to multiple submissions without repeating every profile detail in each place. Rules and transactions can help maintain consistency when several users act at once. The exact capabilities depend on the database system. A spreadsheet may be suitable for a small personal list, while a shared application may need stronger access control and coordinated updates. Neither tool removes the need to define fields and check data quality. Duplicated or ambiguous records create problems in both. Practice: Design a simple book-and-borrower data model. Identify the unique record IDs and explain how one borrower can be connected to several loans.