What is considered the best field type for storing unique non-numeric IDs in a dataset?

The best field type for storing unique non-numeric IDs in a dataset is text. This is because unique identifiers, such as IDs, often contain alphanumeric characters that cannot be accommodated by numeric data types. Text fields offer the flexibility to include any combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, making them ideal for representing IDs that may contain prefixes, suffixes, or other distinguishing characters.

Using text as a field type allows for the secure and accurate storage of IDs without the risk of data loss or misinterpretation that can occur with numeric types, especially when IDs might not follow a strictly sequential or numeric format. Other types, such as integer, float, and boolean, are limited to specific data formats that do not accommodate the diverse nature of unique identifiers effectively. Therefore, utilizing text fields ensures proper management and retrieval of unique non-numeric IDs in a dataset.