Table Calculations

The topic of table calculations in Tableau is so rich and deep that it alone could legitimately be the subject of an entire book. Exploring the various options that are available for each table calculation function and the various ways that table calculations can be applied is an interesting and rewarding endeavor. As you review the examples in this chapter, you will undoubtedly encounter techniques that you can apply in your day-to-day work; however, you may struggle to understand why some of these techniques work. This chapter has been written with the intent of providing ways of thinking about table calculations that will prove useful in your journey toward mastering this fascinating topic. Along the way, some practical examples will be considered as well.

I would like to draw your attention to the work of three individuals who helped to make this chapter possible. Joshua Milligan provided the idea of directional and non-directional as a taxonomy for considering...