Using Calculations: Customize Your Data

Question 1

When should you use a calculated field?

Answer 1

When you want to use your existing data and functions available in Tableau to create new ways to answer questions from your data

Question 2

What icon is added to show that a field is a calculated field?

Answer 2

A small equals sign to the left of the data type icon

Question 3

What are the 5 parts of a calculated field?

Answer 3

Fields, Functions, Operators, Parameters, Comments

Question 4

What can be used as a Field in a calculation?

Answer 4

Data source fields or other calculated fields

Question 5

What are functions?

Answer 5

Defined operations that can be performed on data

Question 6

What are operators and which ones are available in calculations in Tableau?

Answer 6

Shortcuts for more complex functions that are added by manual typing. Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and comparisons are possible in Tableau.

Question 7

What are parameters?

Answer 7

Variables that can be inserted into calculations to replace constant values

Question 8

What are comments and how are they indicated in calculations in Tableau?

Answer 8

Notes in calculations preceded by //

Question 9

Do calculated fields edit the existing fields in the underlying data source?

Answer 9

No, calculated fields add data within Tableau, without changing the underlying data

Question 10

How do you open the calculation editor to create a new calculated field?

Answer 10

Click in white space in the Fields panes or right-click on a specific dimensions or measure that you want to use and select Create Calculated Field

Question 11

What three pieces of information are included for a function in Tableau’s list of available functions in the calculation editor?

Answer 11

Syntax, function description, example