schema-builder

Convex database schema relationships are defined using document-relational patterns with ID references. You establish foreign keys like `userId` or `postId` to connect normalized tables, replacing nested document structures to maintain data consistency.

The best way to structure indexes for Convex tables is by adding single-field and compound indexes for common access paths. You should explicitly index foreign keys and frequent filters to prevent inefficient queries and ensure fast data retrieval.

You should use junction tables instead of arrays in Convex for many-to-many relationships and safe bounded-array handling. Normalizing nested documents into relational tables prevents invalid data and avoids the limitations of unbounded array growth.

Strict validators are applied to a Convex schema using `v.*` typing and enum-style unions. This enforces explicit field validation within the `defineSchema` and `defineTable` structure, preventing invalid data entry at the database level.

Yes, you can refactor nested documents into normalized relations in Convex by converting embedded structures like `users -> posts -> comments` into separate tables. This process uses ID references for foreign keys and matching indexes for efficient lookup.

Convex database queries run slowly when schemas lack clear relationships, compound indexes, and strong validators. Adding explicit indexing for foreign keys and common filters ensures efficient data access paths and prevents brittle application logic.