In database management systems, query by example (QBE) refers to a method of forming queries in which the database program displays a blank record with a space for each field. You can then enter conditions for each field that you want to be included in the query. For example, if you wanted to find all records where the AGE field is greater than 65, you would enter >65 in the AGE field blank.
QBE systems are considered easier to learn than formal query languages.