How to Add a Calculated Field in Tableau
Adding a calculated field in Tableau is a powerful way to manipulate and analyze your data. Whether you want to perform complex calculations or simply create a new field based on existing data, Tableau’s calculated field feature allows you to do so with ease. In this article, we will guide you through the process of adding a calculated field in Tableau, step by step.
Step 1: Open Tableau and Connect to Your Data
To begin, open Tableau and connect to your data source. You can connect to various data sources such as Excel, CSV, or a database. Once connected, drag and drop the fields you want to use into the view or sheet where you want to add the calculated field.
Step 2: Access the Calculated Field Feature
To add a calculated field, click on the “Data” tab in the bottom menu. Then, click on the “+” icon next to “Calculated Fields (1)” to create a new calculated field.
Step 3: Define Your Calculated Field
In the “Create Calculated Field” dialog box, you will see a text editor where you can write your calculation. Tableau uses a formula language similar to SQL and Excel, making it easy to write calculations. You can use the fields and measures from your data source in your calculation.
For example, let’s say you want to calculate the average sales per customer. You can create a new calculated field named “Average Sales” using the following formula:
“`
Average Sales = AVG([Sales])
“`
Here, `[Sales]` is the field from your data source that contains the sales data.
Step 4: Save Your Calculated Field
After defining your calculation, click “OK” to save the calculated field. It will now appear in the “Data” tab under “Calculated Fields (1).” You can now drag and drop it into your view or sheet to use it in your analysis.
Step 5: Utilize Your Calculated Field
With your calculated field created, you can now use it in various ways. You can drag it into the view or sheet to create a new column or measure. You can also use it in filters, parameters, and other calculations.
For example, you can create a bar chart to visualize the average sales per customer by dragging the “Average Sales” calculated field into the view and setting the view to “Bar Chart.”
Conclusion
Adding a calculated field in Tableau is a straightforward process that can greatly enhance your data analysis. By following these simple steps, you can create custom calculations and gain deeper insights into your data. Experiment with different calculations and formulas to uncover valuable information and make informed decisions. Happy analyzing!
