What is meant by 'data manipulation' within a DBMS?

Data manipulation within a Database Management System (DBMS) primarily refers to the operations that involve retrieving, modifying, or managing information stored in the database. This includes tasks such as adding new records, updating existing records, deleting records, and querying data to obtain specific information according to user requirements.

Retrieving and modifying database records is central to how data is handled within a DBMS. By allowing users to execute operations like SELECT statements for retrieval or UPDATE statements for modifications, the DBMS provides the fundamental capabilities required for effective data management. This manipulation is essential for maintaining the accuracy and relevance of the data over time as its needs evolve.

In contrast, other operations mentioned do not fit the definition of data manipulation. Creating new databases and structures pertains more to database design and architecture. Normalizing data focuses on organizing data efficiently to reduce redundancy and improve data integrity, which is a distinct process from the manipulative operations that change or retrieve data. Defining user permissions and roles relates to security management within the DBMS, helping ensure that only authorized users can perform certain actions, but this is not classified as data manipulation.