How to update a row using Entity Framework code first?

Question

How should I go about updating a row in the database? There is no update method, and if I use add and the primary key id already exists, I get an exception. Please provide an example if possible.

Answer 1

The easiest way is:

(1) retrieve existing row using pk.

(2) update properties.

(3) call SaveChanges() on context.

e.g.

        var student = context.Students.Find(42);

        student.Description = "updated";

        context.SaveChanges();

Answer 2

Here is a way that worked for me without having to make a query first:

context.Students.Attach(student);
context.Entry(student).State = EntityState.Modified;
context.SaveChanges();