Need help with random access files...

I have a little problem. My program allows users to delete records from a random access file. It also allows them to enter new records into the random access file. When they delete the record, the program just sets the record fields to "" So the record is still there, just nothing in it.

Since I don't want to waste to much space, when the user adds a new record, I want the program to look for the first 'available' record to use. By this I mean either the first deleted one it comes to, or add a new one to the end of file, which ever comes first. Then add that record number to a labels caption.

Here is the code I am using,

Dim QARec As QA
    Dim i As Integer
    Dim first As Integer
    Dim filename As String
    Dim questiontext As String
    filename = strInstallPath & File1.filename
    Open filename For Random As #1 Len = 1500
    Do Until EOF(1)   
        i = i + 1
        Get #1, i, QARec
        questiontext = QARec.Question
        If questiontext = "" Then
            first = i
        End If
    Loop
    Close #1
    lblQuestionNumber.Caption = i

Also, if you notice I used EOF(1), is this the proper way to use it?

Thanks for any help you give.

[HeSaidJoe]

you should look into using a database file as they are random access files with everything including the kitchen sink thrown in...
Perhaps this is a school project and you need to use a random file...in that case ignore this.

You can build a mdb...look under AddIns..Visual Data Manager
Visa Data....

I am just learning Visual Basic, and I want to learn Random Access Files. I do plan on converting the program over to a database type file storage, but for now I want to do it the Random way. Thanks anyway.

Anyone have a solution???????

HeSaidJoe:

THANK YOU!!
I have been needing MS access for such a long time..
and now i dont need it
THANK YOU!!!!!!

hmmm... anyway, I could still use an answer if anyone has one..