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How do I create a custom column?

Published in Create Custom Column 3 mins read

To create a custom column, you typically use the Power Query Editor feature in applications like Excel or Power BI. It allows you to add a new column to your data based on calculations or logic you define using formulas.

Here’s the straightforward process:

Steps to Create a Custom Column

Creating a custom column involves accessing the data transformation environment and specifying your new column's definition.

  1. Open the Query Editor: You need to work within the Power Query Editor.
    • Reference Insight: To open a query, locate one previously loaded from the Power Query Editor, select a cell in the data, and then select Query > Edit.
  2. Access the Add Column Options: Once you are inside the Power Query Editor window, navigate to the relevant tab in the ribbon.
  3. Select Custom Column: Reference Insight: From the options available, select Add Column > Custom Column. This action opens a dialog box where you can define your new column.


Defining Your Custom Column

After selecting "Custom Column," a window will appear where you configure the new column:

  • New column name: Give your custom column a descriptive name.
  • Custom column formula: Enter the formula that will determine the values in your new column. You can reference existing columns by double-clicking them from the "Available columns" list or typing their names. The formula uses the Power Query M formula language.


What is a Custom Column?

A custom column is a new column added to your query whose values are calculated based on an expression you provide. This expression can involve:

  • Combining text from other columns.
  • Performing mathematical operations on numeric columns.
  • Applying conditional logic (like IF statements).
  • Extracting parts of dates or text.


Quick Reference Table

Step Action Location
1. Open Query Editor Select a cell in loaded data, then Query > Edit Application Interface (e.g., Excel)
2. Navigate Ribbon Select the "Add Column" tab Power Query Editor Ribbon
3. Choose Custom Column Click "Custom Column" button Add Column Tab (Power Query Editor)
4. Define Column Enter Name and Formula in dialog box Custom Column Dialog (Power Query Editor)


By following these steps, you can effectively create a custom column tailored to your specific data analysis needs within the Power Query Editor.

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