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In computing, a record is a heterogeneous collection of data, meaning it can store different types of information together. Think of it like a structured entry in a database, where each piece of information (a "field") has a specific name and type, such as a person's name (text), age (number), or status (true/false).1

Records are fundamental data structures that help organize information efficiently. They allow programmers to group related data items, like all the details for a single employee (name, title, salary), into one unit. This contrasts with an "array," which stores a collection of the same data type. Databases use records, often organized into tables, to store and retrieve vast amounts of information rapidly.12

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