To configure a file so that it correctly holds a structured list (dataset), which preparatory steps must be completed before loading or entering records?

Introduction / Context:
Before data is ingested into a file or table, designers must define the schema and access paths. This ensures consistent validation, efficient retrieval, and predictable reporting. Skipping these steps leads to data quality problems and slow queries once the dataset grows.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A ‘‘list’’ refers to a structured collection of uniform records.
• Fields (attributes) must be named and typed, with appropriate widths.
• Sort or index keys should be chosen to support the expected lookups and reports.

Concept / Approach:

Good schema design starts with identifying the record structure (what constitutes one row), then enumerating fields with data types and lengths to enforce integrity. Next, we determine keys for ordering and indexing to enable efficient queries. All these steps are required to transform raw information into a managed dataset that the DBMS can validate and optimize.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

All mainstream DBMS tools and data modeling methodologies (logical → physical design) emphasize these steps as prerequisites to reliable data loading.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Each individual step is necessary; choosing only one omits essential design tasks.

None of the above: Incorrect because all three are fundamental schema activities.

Common Pitfalls:

Deferring index decisions until after load; retrofitting keys later can be disruptive and slow.

Final Answer:

All of the above