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Learning DAX in Easy Steps

4.5 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 160 ratings
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Yoda Learning

Data Analysis Expressions (DAX) is the formula language of Power BI, Power Pivot, and SSAS (Tabular models). DAX is a functional language (executed code is contained inside a function). Learning DAX is much like discovering how to use formulas in Excel.

This course covers all the essentials functions/parameters that make DAX unique.

If you are learning DAX from scratch or already know the basics, this course will help you all to master the Power BI.

We'll first get started by learning the essential terms in DAX such as:

Read more

Data Analysis Expressions (DAX) is the formula language of Power BI, Power Pivot, and SSAS (Tabular models). DAX is a functional language (executed code is contained inside a function). Learning DAX is much like discovering how to use formulas in Excel.

This course covers all the essentials functions/parameters that make DAX unique.

If you are learning DAX from scratch or already know the basics, this course will help you all to master the Power BI.

We'll first get started by learning the essential terms in DAX such as:

  • Implicit and Explicit Measure

  • Calculated fields

  • Evaluation Context

  • Table Relationship

  • Table Types and more

Next, we'll see DAX functions in action like

By the end of this course, you'll have the knowledge of:

  • How the DAX engine works

  • Using DAX to model and analyze your data

  • How to aggregate and filter with ease

The course is structured to minimize theory and focus more on action. The quick wins will keep you motivated to deep dive further

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Essential dax concepts
  • Powerful dax functions
  • Creating data models
  • Developing dax formulas in microsoft power bi
  • Calculated fields and measures using dax

Syllabus

Essential Terms - Part 1
Introduction

In this video, we will see the learning path and some important tips that are required to learn DAX. Also, you can download the practice files for this course from here.

Read more

In this video, we will learn about some important DAX terms such as: Implicit vs Explicit Measure

In this video, we will learn about important DAX terms such as: Calculated Column vs Measure

In this video, we will learn about Evaluation Context

In this video, we will learn about basics of Table Relationship

In this video, we will learn about the DISTINCTCOUNT function. It counts the number of distinct values in a column.

Syntax: DISTINCTCOUNT(Sales[CustomerKey])

In this video, we will learn about COUNTROWS function. It counts the number of rows in the specified table

Syntax: COUNTROWS(Sales)

In this video, we will learn about SUMX function. We will also learn about the difference between the Column and Measure using SUMX function.

In this video, we will see the importance of creating a measure for a simple thing as SUM

In this video, we will learn about one of the most important DAX function: CALCULATE

Syntax: CALCULATE(<expression>,<filter1>,<filter2>…)

In this video, we will learn about the FILTER function. This function gets a table and returns a table that has the same columns as in the original table.

Syntax: FILTER(<table>,<filter>)

In this video, we will learn to create a Unique Date Table using CALENDAR function

Syntax: CALENDAR(<start_date>, <end_date>)

In this video, we will see the Month on Month (MoM) and Year on Year (YoY) comparisons using the DATEADD function.

In this video, we will learn about SAMEPERIODLASTYEAR function

Syntax: SAMEPERIODLASTYEAR(<dates>) 

In this video, we will learn about DATESINPERIOD function

Syntax: DATESINPERIOD (<dates>, <start_date>, <number_of_intervals>, <interval>)

In this video, we will learn about TOTALYTD function of DAX. Here YTD stands for Year to Date.

Syntax: TOTALYTD(<expression>,<dates>[,<filter>][,<year_end_date>]) 

In this video, we will learn about ALL and ALLSELECTED DAX functions

Syntax:

  • ALL( [<table> | <column>[, <column>[, <column>[,…]]]] )

  • ALLSELECTED([<tableName> | <columnName>[, <columnName>[, <columnName>[,…]]]] )

In this video, we will learn about DIVIDE function

Syntax: DIVIDE(<numerator>, <denominator> [,<alternateresult>])

In this video, we will learn about RELATED function of DAX. It is very similar to Vlookup or Index formulas in EXCEL.

Syntax: RELATED(<columns>)

In this video, we will learn about SUMMARIZE function.

Syntax: SUMMARIZE(<table>, <groupBy_columnName>[, <groupBy_columnName>]…[, <name>, <expression>]…)

In this video, we will learn about ADDCOLUMS function in DAX. It helps to add columns as the name suggests.

Syntax: ADDCOLUMNS(<table>, <name>, <expression>[, <name>, <expression>]…)

In this video, we will learn about DISTINCT function (Meaning Remove Duplicates)

Syntax:

  • DISTINCT (column) – values

  • DISTINCT (<table>) – duplicate rows

In this video, we will learn about FORMAT function of DAX. It is very similar to TEXT of Excel

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers essential DAX functions like CALCULATE, FILTER, and DATEADD, which are critical for data modeling and analysis in Power BI
Draws parallels between DAX and Excel formulas, easing the learning curve for those transitioning from Excel to Power BI
Begins with essential terms like Implicit vs Explicit Measure and Calculated Column vs Measure, building a strong foundation for beginners
Focuses on practical application with minimal theory, which helps learners quickly apply DAX concepts within Power BI projects
Explores table relationships and evaluation context, which are essential for creating robust data models in Power BI
Uses syntax examples for each function, which helps learners understand the practical application of DAX in real-world scenarios

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Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary

Foundational dax for power bi

According to the course description and syllabus, this course is designed to provide a foundational understanding of DAX, primarily for use in Power BI. It focuses on essential terms and key functions through a practical approach aimed at achieving quick wins. The structure covers core concepts like Evaluation Context and relationships, moving into demonstrations of fundamental DAX functions such as CALCULATE, FILTER, and time intelligence functions. It appears suitable for those new to DAX or looking to solidify their basic knowledge.
Aims to help learners new to DAX.
"If you are learning DAX from scratch... this course will help you."
"Titled 'Learning DAX in Easy Steps,' suggesting accessibility for newcomers."
"Starts with essential terms before moving to functions in action."
Minimize theory, focus on action and quick wins.
"The course is structured to minimize theory and focus more on action."
"I expect to get quick wins to stay motivated and deep dive further."
"Learning DAX is much like discovering how to use formulas in Excel, suggesting a practical, formula-based approach."
Learn core concepts and key DAX functions.
"This course aims to cover all the essential functions and parameters that make DAX unique."
"The syllabus lists important terms like Evaluation Context and essential functions like CALCULATE."
"The focus is on the basics, providing a solid starting point for beginners."
May not cover advanced topics or complex scenarios.
"The focus is on 'essential functions/parameters,' suggesting it may not cover advanced topics."
"Minimizing theory might mean less deep understanding of complex evaluation contexts."
"Might require additional resources for advanced DAX patterns or optimization techniques."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learning DAX in Easy Steps with these activities:
Review Excel Formulas and Functions
Refresh your knowledge of Excel formulas and functions, as DAX shares similarities with Excel formulas, making the transition smoother.
Browse courses on Excel Formulas
Show steps
  • Review basic arithmetic and logical operators in Excel.
  • Practice using common Excel functions like SUM, AVERAGE, IF, and VLOOKUP.
  • Familiarize yourself with Excel's formula syntax and error handling.
Explore 'Collect, Combine, and Transform Data Using Power Query in Excel and Power BI' by Gil Raviv
Improve your data preparation skills by learning Power Query, a tool that complements DAX in Power BI.
View Collect, Combine, and Transform Data Using... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Collect, Combine, and Transform Data Using Power Query in Excel and Power BI'.
  • Read the chapters on data cleaning and transformation.
  • Practice using Power Query to prepare data for DAX analysis.
Read 'The Definitive Guide to DAX' by Russo and Ferrari
Deepen your understanding of DAX by studying a comprehensive guide written by leading experts in the field.
View The Definitive Guide to DAX: Business... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Definitive Guide to DAX'.
  • Read the chapters relevant to the course syllabus.
  • Work through the examples provided in the book.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
DAX Function Exercises
Reinforce your understanding of DAX functions by completing targeted practice exercises.
Show steps
  • Identify DAX functions covered in the course.
  • Find or create datasets suitable for practicing these functions.
  • Write DAX formulas using the functions to solve specific data analysis problems.
Create a DAX Function Cheat Sheet
Solidify your understanding of DAX functions by creating a cheat sheet that summarizes their syntax and usage.
Show steps
  • List the DAX functions covered in the course.
  • For each function, document its syntax, parameters, and a brief description.
  • Organize the cheat sheet in a clear and concise format.
Build a Power BI Dashboard with DAX
Apply your DAX knowledge by creating a Power BI dashboard that solves a real-world business problem.
Show steps
  • Choose a dataset relevant to your interests or profession.
  • Define the key performance indicators (KPIs) you want to track.
  • Develop DAX measures to calculate the KPIs.
  • Design and build the dashboard in Power BI.
Answer DAX Questions on Forums
Reinforce your DAX knowledge by helping others learn and troubleshoot their DAX formulas.
Show steps
  • Find online forums or communities dedicated to Power BI and DAX.
  • Browse the forums for questions related to DAX.
  • Provide clear and helpful answers to the questions.

Career center

Learners who complete Learning DAX in Easy Steps will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Power BI Developer
Power BI Developers work to create data models, visualizations, and dashboards using Power BI. This role requires a mastery of the DAX language which is the focus of this course. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of essential DAX functions, calculated fields, and measures, all of which form the backbone of any Power BI project. By taking this course, a Power BI developer can learn to create sophisticated and insightful data models and reports. This course will enable Power BI developers to use DAX in a practical way, which is essential to their work.
See salaries and explore the career path for Power BI Developer
Data Analyst
Data Analysts examine data to extract meaningful information and offer insights to stakeholders. They rely on their knowledge of data manipulation and analytical techniques, areas that this DAX course will certainly help to improve. This course focuses on essential DAX concepts, including calculated fields and measures, which are fundamental for producing accurate and useful data analysis. A data analyst who completes this course will gain the ability to create sophisticated data models and produce calculations that are necessary for in-depth reporting and presentations. This course teaches both essential DAX concepts and powerful functions, which helps learners become more effective in their data analysis role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Business Intelligence Analyst
A Business Intelligence Analyst uses data to identify trends and patterns that can help a company make better decisions. This role often involves crafting reports and dashboards, which requires a strong understanding of data modeling and analysis, an area where this course on Data Analysis Expressions, or DAX, will certainly help. This course teaches how to use DAX to perform calculations and create measures, which are essential for building insightful business intelligence dashboards and reports with Power BI. The ability to effectively use DAX, as taught in this course, is a crucial skill for any aspiring business intelligence analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Intelligence Analyst
Reporting Analyst
A Reporting Analyst is responsible for producing regular reports that track performance and provide insight to stakeholders. This role relies on the ability to effectively use software tools to extract, manipulate, and present data accurately. This is where a course focused on DAX can help. This course provides training in essential DAX functions and parameters needed to create robust and accurate reports, thereby enabling the reporting analyst to work with complex data sets and create sophisticated calculations. The course's emphasis on practical application of DAX helps improve the reporting skills of an analyst who takes it.
See salaries and explore the career path for Reporting Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts evaluate financial data, develop reports, and make recommendations to guide a company's financial strategy. They rely on sophisticated data analysis to understand patterns and project future financial performance, and this course on DAX will help improve their capacity to do so. This course covers calculations, data modeling, and aggregation using DAX, all of which are used in performing financial analysis and reporting. The course's focus on practical applications and quick wins will prepare financial analysts to use DAX in their day-to-day work. This course is very useful in preparing financial analysts to work with financial data efficiently and accurately.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst
Data Visualization Specialist
Data Visualization Specialists create engaging and informative visuals to represent data, often using tools like Power BI. A strong understanding of data modeling and calculation is often needed to present data effectively, an area that this course on DAX will greatly help. The course emphasizes the creation of data models, calculated fields and measures using DAX, all of which are needed to craft insightful visualizations. Proficiency in DAX, which this course provides, allows a data visualization specialist to generate more focused and actionable insights from their data, which is ultimately displayed in their dashboards and reports.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Visualization Specialist
Business Systems Analyst
Business Systems Analysts analyze business processes and translate them into technology solutions. They often require the ability to interpret data and create business-focused reports, which are skills improved by taking this course. This course on DAX provides a functional understanding of how to use data analysis expressions to create calculated fields and measures. It also covers essential DAX concepts and powerful functions. These skills allow a business systems analyst to create and interpret sophisticated reports for a business, allowing them to make informed recommendations and support better decision making.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Systems Analyst
Database Analyst
Database Analysts work with databases to organize, query, and extract data to help an organization make better decisions. This career path requires an understanding of data analysis techniques and modeling, which directly relates to the focus of this DAX course. This course provides an understanding of implicit and explicit measures, calculated fields, evaluation context, and table relationships. Database analysts in particular benefit by gaining a better understanding of how to use DAX to model and analyze data, which will help them manage data more effectively. The knowledge gained from this course makes a database analyst more successful in their role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Analyst
Sales Analyst
Sales analysts analyze sales data to help a company understand its performance and identify areas for improvement. This role requires creating insightful reports and dashboards. This course on DAX may be useful for this career path. The course provides an understanding of how to use DAX to create calculated fields and measures and covers essential DAX concepts and powerful functions. A sales analyst who pursues this course may be able to generate more accurate and sophisticated sales reports, improving their understanding of the data. This course may be a good resource for sales analysts.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Analyst
Market Research Analyst
Market Research Analysts study market conditions to help a business make informed decisions. Proficiency in analyzing data and creating reports that highlight trends is critical in this role. A course focused on DAX may be helpful in this regard. This course teaches the essential DAX concepts and their applications in data modeling and analysis, which are directly relevant to market research. By learning DAX, a market research analyst can build more sophisticated reports and models based on data, which can lead to more robust insights into the market. This course may be useful for those seeking to improve their data skills.
See salaries and explore the career path for Market Research Analyst
Marketing Analyst
Marketing Analysts evaluate marketing campaign performance and provide insights to improve strategies. This role requires a strong understanding of data analysis and reporting. This course in DAX introduces the skills needed to create detailed data models and perform sophisticated analysis, so it may be useful to marketing analysts. The course emphasizes creating calculated fields and measures using DAX, which can improve a marketing analyst's ability to track key performance indicators. A marketing analyst completing this course may find it easier to evaluate marketing data and provide valuable insights.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Analyst
Operations Analyst
Operations Analysts track and analyze business processes to identify areas for improvement. This role benefits from the ability to work with data and generate reports in a way that can help improve a business's bottom line. This course on DAX may serve as a helpful resource for those seeking this work. This course covers the DAX language as well as how to use it to create data models and calculate new measures. An operations analyst taking this course may find it helpful when working on projects that involve data sets. This course is not directly related to the work of an operations analyst, but may still be useful.
See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Analyst
Project Manager
Project managers oversee projects from inception to completion, requiring them to track progress and performance, often with the use of data. While not a core aspect of their role, familiarity with data analysis can be helpful for a project manager, and this course may be useful in that regard. This course focuses on DAX, which can be used for creating calculated fields and measures, and for building dashboards that display project data. A project manager taking this course may be able to improve their ability to utilize data in their project management work. This course may be useful for project managers who want to bolster their data skills.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Management Consultant
Management Consultants advise organizations on how to improve their performance. This role requires the ability to analyze complex issues and make recommendations supported by data. This course on DAX is not a core qualification for this role but may be useful for improving data analysis. This course provides training on essential aspects of DAX, including how to use calculated fields and measures, and how to perform data analysis and modeling. A management consultant who has completed this course may be better able to use data to make informed recommendations on business strategy. This course may be helpful, but is not necessarily a must-have.
See salaries and explore the career path for Management Consultant
Human Resources Analyst
Human Resources Analysts analyze HR data to help a company make decisions relating to its employees. This requires the ability to generate reports using HR data. A course in DAX may be helpful in this regard. While the course does not deal directly with HR topics, it teaches the core concepts of using DAX to aggregate data and build reports, which may be useful for an HR analyst. This course may be helpful, but is not specifically targeted toward students or professionals in HR departments.
See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Analyst

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Learning DAX in Easy Steps.
Cover image
The Definitive Guide to DAX
Save
Is widely regarded as the bible for DAX. It provides a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of DAX concepts, syntax, and best practices. It's a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced DAX users, offering detailed explanations and practical examples. This book adds significant depth to the course material and serves as an excellent reference guide.
The Definitive Guide to DAX: Business Intelligence...
Paperback
$$$
The Definitive Guide to Dax (Business Skills)
Paperback
$$$
Definitive Guide to DAX, The: Business intelligence...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Collect, Combine, and Transform Data Using Power...
Save
Focuses on Power Query, a crucial tool for data preparation in Power BI. While the course focuses on DAX, understanding Power Query is essential for cleaning, shaping, and loading data into Power BI before applying DAX formulas. This book provides a solid foundation in Power Query, enabling you to work with data more effectively. It useful reference for data preparation techniques.
Collect, Combine, and Transform Data Using Power...
Kindle Edition
$$

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1.5 total hours
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Yoda Learning
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers essential DAX functions like CALCULATE, FILTER, and DATEADD, which are critical for data modeling and analysis in Power BI
Draws parallels between DAX and Excel formulas, easing the learning curve for those transitioning from Excel to Power BI
Begins with essential terms like Implicit vs Explicit Measure and Calculated Column vs Measure, building a strong foundation for beginners
Focuses on practical application with minimal theory, which helps learners quickly apply DAX concepts within Power BI projects
Explores table relationships and evaluation context, which are essential for creating robust data models in Power BI
Uses syntax examples for each function, which helps learners understand the practical application of DAX in real-world scenarios
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