ISC Databases · Updated November 2026
Database Normalization: 1NF vs 2NF vs 3NF
Normalization puts each fact in the right place.
1NF
First normal form uses atomic values and removes repeating groups.
2NF
Second normal form removes partial dependency on part of a composite key.
3NF
Third normal form removes transitive dependency among nonkey attributes.
Exam strategy
Think atomic values, full-key dependency, then no nonkey-to-nonkey dependency.
The takeaway
1NF removes repeating groups, 2NF partial dependency, and 3NF transitive dependency.
Related Summit resources
FAQ
Does 1NF require atomic values?
Yes.
Does 2NF address partial dependency?
Yes.
Does 3NF address transitive dependency?
Yes.