## Creating a new report

### Selecting the data source

After deciding which option you want to use for creating your report (see Report creation options), the next step is to select a data source to use.

Most data sources can be chosen through the Data Explorer dialog box. The Data Explorer appears when you choose Database in a Report Expert, or when you create a report from scratch using As a Blank Report.

Note: This procedure uses the Report Experts to show you how to select a data source. The Data Explorer dialog box is used the same way for reports created from scratch.

###### To select the data and start a new report

1. On the Standard toolbar, click `New Report`.

   The Seagate Crystal Report Gallery appears.

2. Double-click the Expert for the type of report you want to create.

   The first tab in each Expert (except the OLAP Expert) is a Data tab. Use the options on this tab to select your data source through the Data Explorer dialog box (Database), or the File Open dialog box (Query and Dictionary).

3. On the `Data` tab, click `Database`.
4. Use the tree view of the Data Explorer to select your data source:
   - `Current Connections` shows a list of data sources you are currently connected to.
   - `Favorites` shows a list of data sources you commonly use and have maintained in your Favorites list.
   - `History` shows a list of data sources you have used recently. The last five data sources used are displayed.
   - `ODBC` shows a list of ODBC data sources you have already configured for use. You can use Create New Data Source to configure a new ODBC data source.
   - `File Data Sources` shows a list of standard PC databases that reside locally. You can use Find Database File to browse for a PC database using the Open dialog box.
   - `More Data Sources` shows a list of other data sources that can be accessed through OLE DB and native drivers.

###### Related topics

Accessing Data Sources.

Selecting a query for a report.

Using a dictionary.

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