Database normalization.

Database normalization is the process of organizing data to minimize redundancy and ensure integrity. The main goal is to divide data into related tables to avoid duplication and anomalies during updates.

Main normal forms:

• 1NF (First Normal Form): all fields are atomic, no repeating groups.
• 2NF (Second Normal Form): 1NF + all non-key attributes depend on the entire composite key.
• 3NF (Third Normal Form): 2NF + no transitive dependencies between non-key attributes.

Example: if a "Orders" table stores both customer information and order details, normalization would move customer data to a separate table, leaving only a reference to the customer in the orders.

This improves support, reduces errors, and increases query efficiency.