Search icon CANCEL
Subscription
0
Cart icon
Your Cart (0 item)
Close icon
You have no products in your basket yet
Save more on your purchases! discount-offer-chevron-icon
Savings automatically calculated. No voucher code required.
Arrow left icon
Explore Products
Best Sellers
New Releases
Books
Videos
Audiobooks
Learning Hub
Newsletter Hub
Free Learning
Arrow right icon
timer SALE ENDS IN
0 Days
:
00 Hours
:
00 Minutes
:
00 Seconds
The Definitive Guide to Power Query (M)
The Definitive Guide to Power Query (M)

The Definitive Guide to Power Query (M): Mastering complex data transformation with Power Query

Arrow left icon
Profile Icon Greg Deckler Profile Icon Rick de Groot Profile Icon Melissa de Korte
Arrow right icon
€32.99
Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Half star icon 4.8 (39 Ratings)
eBook Mar 2024 758 pages 1st Edition
eBook
€32.99
Paperback
€41.99
Subscription
Free Trial
Renews at €18.99p/m
Arrow left icon
Profile Icon Greg Deckler Profile Icon Rick de Groot Profile Icon Melissa de Korte
Arrow right icon
€32.99
Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Half star icon 4.8 (39 Ratings)
eBook Mar 2024 758 pages 1st Edition
eBook
€32.99
Paperback
€41.99
Subscription
Free Trial
Renews at €18.99p/m
eBook
€32.99
Paperback
€41.99
Subscription
Free Trial
Renews at €18.99p/m

What do you get with eBook?

Product feature icon Instant access to your Digital eBook purchase
Product feature icon Download this book in EPUB and PDF formats
Product feature icon Access this title in our online reader with advanced features
Product feature icon DRM FREE - Read whenever, wherever and however you want
Product feature icon AI Assistant (beta) to help accelerate your learning
OR
Modal Close icon
Payment Processing...
tick Completed

Billing Address

Table of content icon View table of contents Preview book icon Preview Book

The Definitive Guide to Power Query (M)

Introducing M

M is a powerful and versatile formula language specifically designed for data manipulation and transformation. The term M is an informal designation. M’s official name is the Power Query Formula Language. For an explanation of this designation, see the History of M section later in this chapter. M is the language at the heart of Power Query, which is used in numerous applications like Microsoft Excel, Power BI, Power Platform, and Microsoft Fabric for data transformation and preparation.

The popularity of the M language has continuously grown over the last decade, and the language has been integrated into an impressive array of Microsoft tools and platforms. Today, M and Power Query are indispensable tools for modern data professionals such as business analysts, data scientists, and data enthusiasts.

This chapter is the beginning of your exciting journey that culminates in the mastery of the M language. We start with a brief history of M and then cover the basics of who, where, why, and how. Next, we introduce the absolute basics of the M language and finish with the formal and informal characteristics of M (in effect, what is M?). Overall, this chapter provides a firm foundation for the more in-depth exploration of the M language found throughout the rest of this book. Specifically, this chapter covers the following topics:

  • The history of M
  • Who should learn M?
  • Where and how Is M used?
  • Why learn M?
  • M language basics
  • The characteristics of M

The history of M

The process of extracting, transforming, and loading data is a challenge as old as information technology itself. Both business users and IT professionals have historically struggled with the challenge, and numerous software tools have been developed over the years to help deal with the challenge such as SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) and Alteryx.

However, many of these tools were complex and not easily portable. The M language and Power Query were created to help solve these issues.

While there might be some more speculative history regarding the origins of M, we can at least definitively trace M back to a project originally code-named Data Explorer. Data Explorer was an Azure SQL Labs project circa 2011 that aimed to simplify the process of accessing, cleaning, and preparing data from various sources. The query language was thought of as a mashup language (hence the M for mashup).

In 2013, Microsoft released Power Query as an add-in for Excel. Power Query introduced a user-friendly interface, allowing business users to perform data transformations via a visual editor. Behind the scenes, Power Query utilized the M language as the underlying formula language to drive the data transformations, and as such, these data transformations became repeatable. Instead of, for example, business users continually performing the same manual data transformations on source data received as comma-delimited files, that process could now be effectively automated.

Following the success of Power Query in Excel, Microsoft included Power Query as part of its new product, Power BI Designer, which eventually became Power BI Desktop. As Power Query gained popularity, there was a need to standardize the underlying formula language. In 2016, Microsoft submitted the Power Query Formula Language specification to the European Computer Manufacturers Association (ECMA), an international standards organization. This effort established a formal specification for the language, ensuring compatibility and interoperability between different implementations.

While the language was formally referred to as the Power Query Formula Language, it became commonly known as M among the user community. The informal name M gained widespread acceptance and is now widely used to refer to the language.

Microsoft continues to enhance and refine the M language as part of its ongoing investment in data integration and transformation technologies. New functions, features, and improvements are periodically introduced to provide users with more powerful and efficient ways to manipulate and prepare their data. In addition, Microsoft continues to introduce M within additional software tools and platforms, such as data integration within Microsoft Power Platform and dataflows within Power BI and Fabric.

Today, the M language is a key component of Microsoft’s data transformation and integration toolset. The proliferation of M, as well as its versatility and extensibility, make it an invaluable language for today’s modern data professionals.

Let’s now turn our attention to who should learn M.

Who should learn M?

M is a powerful tool for data professionals and individuals who work with data on a regular basis. The versatility and capabilities of M make it a valuable language to learn for various roles, including the following:

  • Data analysts: Data analysts who deal with data extraction, transformation, and preparation tasks can greatly benefit from learning M. It provides a comprehensive set of functions and operators that enable data analysts to efficiently shape and manipulate data from diverse sources. By mastering M, data analysts can automate repetitive tasks, handle complex data transformations, and ensure data quality, leading to more accurate and reliable data analysis.
  • Business intelligence professionals: Professionals in the business intelligence (BI) space can greatly enhance their skills by learning M. It is a core component of Power BI. By understanding M, BI professionals gain the ability to connect to various data sources, perform complex data transformations, and create reusable data preparation workflows, enabling them to provide actionable insights and drive informed decision-making.
  • Data engineers: Data engineers involved in the design and implementation of data pipelines and data integration processes can really benefit from learning M. It allows data engineers to efficiently extract, transform, and load (ETL) data from different sources into data warehouses or data lakes, specifically within Power BI and Microsoft Fabric. M also provides the flexibility and power to handle complex data formats, define custom transformations, and create efficient data processing workflows. By mastering M, data engineers can streamline data integration processes and ensure data consistency and quality.
  • Data scientists: Data scientists who perform exploratory data analysis, model development, and advanced analytics can leverage the capabilities of M to efficiently prepare their data. M provides a robust set of functions for cleaning, shaping, and aggregating data, allowing data scientists to focus on the analytical aspects of their work. By incorporating M into their data preparation workflows, data scientists can streamline the pipeline of turning raw data into insights, spending less time on data cleansing and preparation and more time on data modeling and analysis.
  • Power users: Power users in Excel and Microsoft’s Power Platform who work extensively with data and perform complex data manipulations can benefit from learning M. It is integrated into Excel through Power Query, empowering users to perform advanced data transformations within the familiar Excel interface. In addition, M is integrated into the Microsoft Power Platform via data integration, allowing data to be transformed and mapped between systems. By mastering M, Power users can expand their data manipulation capabilities, automate repetitive tasks, and enhance the accuracy and reliability of their analyses.
  • Individuals in data-driven roles: Beyond the specific roles mentioned above, individuals in various data-driven roles, such as project managers, consultants, researchers, and domain experts, can benefit from learning M. Mastery of M provides the ability for individuals in these roles to independently handle data-related tasks, extract meaningful insights, and make informed decisions based on reliable data.

M is a valuable language for a wide range of data professionals and other individuals who work with data. Whether you are a data analyst, BI professional, data engineer, data scientist, power user, or someone in a data-driven role, learning M empowers you to efficiently ingest, transform, and prepare data for analysis.

Now that we understand what types of individuals would want to learn M, let’s next explore where those individuals can leverage their mastery of M.

Left arrow icon Right arrow icon
Download code icon Download Code

Key benefits

  • Get comprehensive coverage of fundamental and advanced Power Query concepts
  • Gain hands-on experience with practical examples based on real-world problems
  • Delve into the intricacies of Power Query M language for enhanced data manipulation

Description

Data transformation is a critical step in building data models and business intelligence reports. Power Query is an invaluable tool for anyone who wants to master data transformation, and this book will equip you with the knowledge and skills to make the most of it. The Definitive Guide to Power Query (M) will help you build a solid foundation in the Power Query M language. As you progress through the chapters, you'll learn how to use that knowledge to implement advanced concepts and data transformations. This will set the stage for an uncompromisingly thorough exploration of the Power Query M Language. You'll also get to grips with optimizing performance, handling errors, and implementing efficient data processing techniques. As this is a hands-on guide, the practical examples in the chapters will help you gain the skills to apply Power Query to real-world problems and improve your data analysis capabilities. By the end of this book, you will be able to leverage all of Power Query's remarkable capabilities for data transformation.

Who is this book for?

This book is for business analysts, business intelligence professionals, and power business users working with data who want to add Power Query mastery to their resume. This book will be beneficial for anyone who wants to automate their process of data cleaning and save huge amount of time. Having some basic experience in Power Query is recommended.

What you will learn

  • Gain a strong understanding of Power Query fundamentals
  • Master various functions within Power Query to perform complex data operations
  • Acquire knowledge about values, types, and control structures in Power Query
  • Develop proficiency in error handling techniques
  • Learn performance optimization strategies for Power Query
  • Apply what you've learned to real-world scenarios, including common troublesome patterns

Product Details

Country selected
Publication date, Length, Edition, Language, ISBN-13
Publication date : Mar 29, 2024
Length: 758 pages
Edition : 1st
Language : English
ISBN-13 : 9781835086162
Vendor :
Microsoft
Category :
Languages :
Concepts :

What do you get with eBook?

Product feature icon Instant access to your Digital eBook purchase
Product feature icon Download this book in EPUB and PDF formats
Product feature icon Access this title in our online reader with advanced features
Product feature icon DRM FREE - Read whenever, wherever and however you want
Product feature icon AI Assistant (beta) to help accelerate your learning
OR
Modal Close icon
Payment Processing...
tick Completed

Billing Address

Product Details

Publication date : Mar 29, 2024
Length: 758 pages
Edition : 1st
Language : English
ISBN-13 : 9781835086162
Vendor :
Microsoft
Category :
Languages :
Concepts :

Packt Subscriptions

See our plans and pricing
Modal Close icon
€18.99 billed monthly
Feature tick icon Unlimited access to Packt's library of 7,000+ practical books and videos
Feature tick icon Constantly refreshed with 50+ new titles a month
Feature tick icon Exclusive Early access to books as they're written
Feature tick icon Solve problems while you work with advanced search and reference features
Feature tick icon Offline reading on the mobile app
Feature tick icon Simple pricing, no contract
€189.99 billed annually
Feature tick icon Unlimited access to Packt's library of 7,000+ practical books and videos
Feature tick icon Constantly refreshed with 50+ new titles a month
Feature tick icon Exclusive Early access to books as they're written
Feature tick icon Solve problems while you work with advanced search and reference features
Feature tick icon Offline reading on the mobile app
Feature tick icon Choose a DRM-free eBook or Video every month to keep
Feature tick icon PLUS own as many other DRM-free eBooks or Videos as you like for just €5 each
Feature tick icon Exclusive print discounts
€264.99 billed in 18 months
Feature tick icon Unlimited access to Packt's library of 7,000+ practical books and videos
Feature tick icon Constantly refreshed with 50+ new titles a month
Feature tick icon Exclusive Early access to books as they're written
Feature tick icon Solve problems while you work with advanced search and reference features
Feature tick icon Offline reading on the mobile app
Feature tick icon Choose a DRM-free eBook or Video every month to keep
Feature tick icon PLUS own as many other DRM-free eBooks or Videos as you like for just €5 each
Feature tick icon Exclusive print discounts

Frequently bought together


Stars icon
Total €81.97 €88.97 €7.00 saved
Data Cleaning with Power BI
€27.99
The Definitive Guide to Power Query (M)
€41.99
Extending Power BI with Python and R
€41.99
Total €81.97€88.97 €7.00 saved Stars icon

Table of Contents

18 Chapters
Introducing M Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Working with Power Query/M Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Accessing and Combining Data Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Understanding Values and Expressions Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Understanding Data Types Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Structured Values Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Conceptualizing M Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Working with Nested Structures Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Parameters and Custom Functions Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Dealing with Dates, Times, and Durations Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Comparers, Replacers, Combiners, and Splitters Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Handling Errors and Debugging Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Iteration and Recursion Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Troublesome Data Patterns Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Optimizing Performance Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Enabling Extensions Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Other Books You May Enjoy Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
Index Chevron down icon Chevron up icon

Customer reviews

Top Reviews
Rating distribution
Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Half star icon 4.8
(39 Ratings)
5 star 89.7%
4 star 5.1%
3 star 2.6%
2 star 0%
1 star 2.6%
Filter icon Filter
Top Reviews

Filter reviews by




Richard Martin Apr 29, 2024
Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon 5
Has everything a data cleaner could ask for.
Feefo Verified review Feefo
Marian Delibas Jul 23, 2024
Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon 5
practical solutions with concepts not easy to find
Feefo Verified review Feefo
Lars Lyager Olsen Nov 09, 2024
Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon 5
Feefo Verified review Feefo
N/A May 13, 2024
Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon 5
Feefo Verified review Feefo
Brian Julius, Power BI Expert and Instructor Apr 01, 2024
Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon Full star icon 5
The M language sits on the computers of over one billion Excel and Power BI users worldwide, yet only a very small percentage of those users are aware of its existence, and an even smaller fraction are able to effectively leverage its immense power and flexibility. With over 720 built-in functions (the majority of which are not accessible via the UI), the M language enables you to master nearly any data-related task.One of the reasons M is such an underutilized gem is that in the fourteen years of its existence, no one (until now) has written a comprehensive guide to M coding. The three authors of this book are among the most experienced and knowledgeable M experts in the world, and do a brilliant job guiding the reader from the fundamental concepts of M through its most advanced functions and applications.This book is neither a quick nor easy read, but will reward careful study with deep understanding and dramatically increased abilities in data cleaning, transformation, modeling, automation, and analysis.
Amazon Verified review Amazon
Get free access to Packt library with over 7500+ books and video courses for 7 days!
Start Free Trial

FAQs

How do I buy and download an eBook? Chevron down icon Chevron up icon

Where there is an eBook version of a title available, you can buy it from the book details for that title. Add either the standalone eBook or the eBook and print book bundle to your shopping cart. Your eBook will show in your cart as a product on its own. After completing checkout and payment in the normal way, you will receive your receipt on the screen containing a link to a personalised PDF download file. This link will remain active for 30 days. You can download backup copies of the file by logging in to your account at any time.

If you already have Adobe reader installed, then clicking on the link will download and open the PDF file directly. If you don't, then save the PDF file on your machine and download the Reader to view it.

Please Note: Packt eBooks are non-returnable and non-refundable.

Packt eBook and Licensing When you buy an eBook from Packt Publishing, completing your purchase means you accept the terms of our licence agreement. Please read the full text of the agreement. In it we have tried to balance the need for the ebook to be usable for you the reader with our needs to protect the rights of us as Publishers and of our authors. In summary, the agreement says:

  • You may make copies of your eBook for your own use onto any machine
  • You may not pass copies of the eBook on to anyone else
How can I make a purchase on your website? Chevron down icon Chevron up icon

If you want to purchase a video course, eBook or Bundle (Print+eBook) please follow below steps:

  1. Register on our website using your email address and the password.
  2. Search for the title by name or ISBN using the search option.
  3. Select the title you want to purchase.
  4. Choose the format you wish to purchase the title in; if you order the Print Book, you get a free eBook copy of the same title. 
  5. Proceed with the checkout process (payment to be made using Credit Card, Debit Cart, or PayPal)
Where can I access support around an eBook? Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
  • If you experience a problem with using or installing Adobe Reader, the contact Adobe directly.
  • To view the errata for the book, see www.packtpub.com/support and view the pages for the title you have.
  • To view your account details or to download a new copy of the book go to www.packtpub.com/account
  • To contact us directly if a problem is not resolved, use www.packtpub.com/contact-us
What eBook formats do Packt support? Chevron down icon Chevron up icon

Our eBooks are currently available in a variety of formats such as PDF and ePubs. In the future, this may well change with trends and development in technology, but please note that our PDFs are not Adobe eBook Reader format, which has greater restrictions on security.

You will need to use Adobe Reader v9 or later in order to read Packt's PDF eBooks.

What are the benefits of eBooks? Chevron down icon Chevron up icon
  • You can get the information you need immediately
  • You can easily take them with you on a laptop
  • You can download them an unlimited number of times
  • You can print them out
  • They are copy-paste enabled
  • They are searchable
  • There is no password protection
  • They are lower price than print
  • They save resources and space
What is an eBook? Chevron down icon Chevron up icon

Packt eBooks are a complete electronic version of the print edition, available in PDF and ePub formats. Every piece of content down to the page numbering is the same. Because we save the costs of printing and shipping the book to you, we are able to offer eBooks at a lower cost than print editions.

When you have purchased an eBook, simply login to your account and click on the link in Your Download Area. We recommend you saving the file to your hard drive before opening it.

For optimal viewing of our eBooks, we recommend you download and install the free Adobe Reader version 9.