The Chart Builder
The Chart Builder is a tool for creating charts and metrics based on data. As you make changes, results update instantly, helping you uncover insights.
The Chart Builder
The Chart Builder consists of the following components:
1. Data Panel
The Data Panel, located on the left, lists data fields from the selected dataset. Fields are divided into:
- Categories: Text or date columns used to group data (e.g., sales region, order date).
- Values: Numeric columns used as measures, either raw or aggregated (e.g., total sales revenue).
Drag fields from the Data Panel to other areas to build your chart.
2. Column Shelf
The Column Shelf is where you drag data fields for analysis. The number and type of fields depend on the chart type. Each field (or "column pill") offers options like formatting, aggregation, and sorting.
- Category (Blue): Text or date fields for grouping.
- Value (Green): Numeric fields for measures.
Key features of column pills:
- Drag to move fields.
- Display field name and data type (Text, Numeric, Date).
- Adjust aggregation (e.g., Sum, Average).
- Set sorting direction.
- Access additional options via the three-dot menu.
3. Toolbar
The Toolbar provides tools to configure your chart, including:
- Buckets
- Formulas
- Filters
- Chart Colors
- Full-Screen View
- Save Chart
4. Chart Configuration Panel
This panel includes:
- Charts Panel: Select the chart type.
- Configuration Section: Customize chart-specific styles.
5. Canvas
The Canvas displays your chart and allows you to add or edit its name and description.
Charts
- Chart Name and Description: Edit by clicking the fields.
- Legend: Displays categories for multi-value charts.
- Tooltips: Show additional data when hovering over points.
- Data Labels: Display values on data points.
- Axis Labels: Label the X and Y axes.
- Axes: Represent data dimensions and measures.
Create a Chart
Follow these steps to create a chart:
- Add a Chart: Click Add Chart or Add Metrics. The default chart type is a Bar Chart, but you can change it in the Charts Panel.
- Select a Dataset: Choose the dataset for your chart. If accessed from the Analyze section, the dataset is preselected.
- Drag Columns: Drag fields to the Column Shelf or directly onto the Canvas. The chart updates automatically:
- Category fields are grouped using a Count function.
- Value fields are aggregated using a Sum function.
- Adjust aggregations, sorting, and formatting via the column pill menu.
- Customize: Use the Configuration Panel to enhance or style your chart.
- Name and Save: Add a name and optional description, then click Save Chart.
Once saved, the chart appears in a panel. Access it from the Analyze view or the Dashboard's Data Panel.
Panel Actions
Use the three-dot menu in the panel to:
- Edit the chart.
- Download, duplicate, or delete the chart.
- Resize the panel (Dashboard only).
- Set or edit panel filters.