---
title: InfluxDB key concepts
description: Concepts related to InfluxDB.
url: https://docs.influxdata.com/influxdb/cloud/reference/key-concepts/
estimated_tokens: 556
product: InfluxDB Cloud (TSM)
version: cloud
---

# InfluxDB key concepts

Before working with InfluxDB Cloud, it’s helpful to learn a few key concepts. Browse the topics and videos below to learn more.

### [InfluxDB data elements](/influxdb/cloud/reference/key-concepts/data-elements/)

InfluxDB structures data using elements such as timestamps, field keys, field values, tags, etc.

### [InfluxDB data schema](/influxdb/cloud/reference/key-concepts/data-schema/)

InfluxDB uses a tabular data schema for displaying raw data in Data Explorer and for returning query results in annotated CSV syntax.

### [InfluxDB design principles](/influxdb/cloud/reference/key-concepts/design-principles/)

Principles and tradeoffs related to InfluxDB design.

[key concepts](/influxdb/cloud/tags/key-concepts/)