Hi
If you want to declare a variable that is available in the whole of your database then in the database window goto Modules and create a new module. To declare a public variable use this code:
Public yourVariable Name As Integer,String etc...
If you want to declare a variable that is only available in your form then in the 'General' section of your form's code use this code:
Dim yourVariableName As Integer,String etc...
HTH
Rob