Filters in Tableau

Definition

• Filters in Tableau allow users to control and refine the data displayed in visualizations.

Characteristics

• Basic Filters help limit the data based on user-defined conditions.

Types of Filters

• There are three main types of basic filters used in Tableau :-

1. • Dimension Filters
   • Measure Filters
   • Date Filters

Dimension Filters

• This filter is applied to categorical field types of data (Dimensions like Region, Category, Customer Name, etc.).
• This filter allows users to include or exclude specific values.
• This filter has several options including:
  • General: Select specific values.
  • Wildcard: Filter based on partial text matches.
  • Condition: Apply rules like “Sales > 500”.
  • Top/Bottom: Show the top/bottom N values.

Measure Filters

• This filter is applied to numerical fields (Measures like Sales, Profit, Discount, etc.).
• These filters are based on ranges, conditions, or relative values.
• This filter has several options including:
  • Range of Values: Set of min and max values.
  • At Least / At Most: Define a threshold.
  • Relative to Other Values: Filter based on percentiles.

Date Filters

• This filter is applied to date fields (Order Date, Ship Date, etc.).
• This filter has several options including:
  • Relative Date: Filter dynamically (e.g., Last 30 days, Last Year).
  • Range of Dates: Set a start and end date.
  • Individual Dates: Select specific dates.
  • Custom: Use formulas for advanced filtering.

How to Apply Filters in Tableau?

• First, drag the suitable field (dimension/measure/date) to the Filters Shelf.
• Now, choose a filter type (General, Range, Condition, etc.).
• Finally, customize the filter settings.
• Click OK to apply.