Table of Contents
Tableau Interview Questions and Answers
1. What is Tableau?
Tableau is a business intelligence software.
It allows anyone to connect to the respective data.
Visualizes and creates interactive, shareable dashboards.
2. What are Measures and Dimensions?
Measures are the numeric metrics or measurable quantities of the data, which can be analyzed by dimension table. Measures are stored in a table that contain foreign keys referring uniquely to the associated dimension tables. The table supports data storage at atomic level and thus, allows more number of records to be inserted at one time. For instance, a Sales table can have product key, customer key, promotion key, items sold, referring to a specific event.
3. What are the different Tableau Products and what is the latest version of Tableau?
Tableau Desktop:
It is a self service business analytics and data visualization that anyone can use. It translates pictures of data into optimized queries. With tableau desktop, you can directly connect to data from your data warehouse for live upto date data analysis. You can also perform queries without writing a single line of code. Import all your data into Tableau’s data engine from multiple sources & integrate altogether by combining multiple views in a interactive dashboard.
4. What is the difference between .twb and .twbx extension?
A .twb is an xml document which contains all the selections and layout made you have made in your Tableau workbook. It does not contain any data.
A .twbx is a ‘zipped’ archive containing a .twb and any external files such as extracts and background images.
5.What are the different types of joins in Tableau?
The joins in Tableau are same as SQL joins. Take a look at the diagram below to understand it.
6. How many maximum tables can you join in Tableau?
You can join a maximum of 32 tables in Tableau.
7. What are the different connections you can make with your dataset?
We can either connect live to our data set or extract data onto Tableau.
- Live: Connecting live to a data set leverages its computational processing and storage. New queries will go to the database and will be reflected as new or updated within the data.
- Extract: An extract will make a static snapshot of the data to be used by Tableau’s data engine. The snapshot of the data can be refreshed on a recurring schedule as a whole or incrementally append data. One way to set up these schedules is via the Tableau server.
8.What are shelves?
They are Named areas to the left and top of the view. You build views by placing fields onto the shelves. Some shelves are available only when you select certain mark types.
9. What are sets?
Sets are custom fields that define a subset of data based on some conditions. A set can be based on a computed condition, for example, a set may contain customers with sales over a certain threshold. Computed sets update as your data changes. Alternatively, a set can be based on specific data point in your view.
10. What are groups?
A group is a combination of dimension members that make higher level categories. For example, if you are working with a view that shows average test scores by major, you may want to group certain majors together to create major categories.
11. What is a hierarchical field?
A hierarchical field in tableau is used for drilling down data. It means viewing your data in a more granular level.
12. What is Tableau Data Server?
Tableau server acts a middle man between Tableau users and the data. Tableau Data Server allows you to upload and share data extracts, preserve database connections, as well as reuse calculations and field metadata. This means any changes you make to the data-set, calculated fields, parameters, aliases, or definitions, can be saved and shared with others, allowing for a secure, centrally managed and standardized dataset. Additionally, you can leverage your server’s resources to run queries on extracts without having to first transfer them to your local machine.
13.What is Tableau Data Engine?
Tableau Data Engine is a really cool feature in Tableau. Its an analytical database designed to achieve instant query response, predictive performance, integrate seamlessly into existing data infrastructure and is not limited to load entire data sets into memory.
14. What are the different filters in Tableau and how are they different from each other?
Normal Filter is used to restrict the data from database based on selected dimension or measure. A Traditional Filter can be created by simply dragging a field onto the ‘Filters’ shelf.
Quick filter is used to view the filtering options and filter each worksheet on a dashboard while changing the values dynamically (within the range defined) during the run time.
Context Filter is used to filter the data that is transferred to each individual worksheet. When a worksheet queries the data source, it creates a temporary,
15. How to create a calculated field in Tableau?
Click the drop down to the right of Dimensions on the Data pane and select “Create > Calculated Field” to open the calculation editor.
Name the new field and create a formula.
Take a look at the example below:
16.What is a dual axis?
Dual Axis is an excellent phenomenon supported by Tableau that helps users view two scales of two measures in the same graph. Many websites like Indeed.com and other make use of dual axis to show the comparison between two measures and their growth rate in a septic set of years.
17. What is the difference between a tree map and heat map?
A heat map can be used for comparing categories with color and size. With heat maps, you can compare two different measures together.
A tree map also does the same except it is considered a very powerful visualization as it can be used for illustrating hierarchical data and part-to-whole relationships.
18.What is disaggregation and aggregation of data?
The process of viewing numeric values or measures at higher and more summarized levels of the data is called aggregation. When you place a measure on a shelf, Tableau automatically aggregates the data, usually by summing it. You can easily determine the aggregation applied to a field because the function always appears in front of the field’s name when it is placed on a shelf. For example, Sales becomes SUM(Sales). You can aggregate measures using Tableau only for relational data sources. Multidimensional data sources contain aggregated data only. In Tableau, multidimensional data sources are supported only in Windows.
19.What is the difference between joining and blending in Tableau?
Joining term is used when you are combining data from the same source, for example, worksheet in an Excel file or tables in Oracle database
While blending requires two completely defined data sources in your report.
20. What are Extracts and Schedules in Tableau server?
Data extracts are the first copies or subdivisions of the actual data from original data sources. The workbooks using data extracts instead of those using live DB connections are faster since the extracted data is imported in Tableau Engine.After this extraction of data, users can publish the workbook, which also publishes the extracts in Tableau Server.
21. How to view underlying SQL Queries in Tableau?
Create a Performance Recording to record performance information about the main events you interact with workbook. Users can view the performance metrics in a workbook created by Tableau.
Help -> Settings and Performance -> Start Performance Recording
Help -> Setting and Performance -> Stop Performance Recording.
Reviewing the Tableau Desktop Logs located at C:UsersMy DocumentsMy Tableau Repository. For live connection to data source, you can check log.txt and tabprotosrv.txt files. For an extract, check tdeserver.txt file.
22. How to do Performance Testing in Tableau?
Performance testing is again an important part of implementing tableau. This can be done by loading Testing Tableau Server with TabJolt, which is a “Point and Run” load generator created to perform QA. While TabJolt is not supported by tableau directly, it has to be installed using other open source products.
23. Name the components of a Dashboard.
Horizontal – Horizontal layout containers allow the designer to group worksheets and dashboard components left to right across your page and edit the height of all elements at once.
Vertical – Vertical containers allow the user to group worksheets and dashboard components top to bottom down your page and edit the width of all elements at once.
Text – All textual fields.
Image Extract – A Tableau workbook is in XML format. In order to extracts images, Tableau applies some codes to extract an image which can be stored in XML.
Web [URL ACTION] – A URL action is a hyperlink that points to a Web page, file, or other web-based resource outside of Tableau. You can use URL actions to link to more information about your data that may be hosted outside of your data source. To make the link relevant to your data, you can substitute field values of a selection into the URL as parameters.
24.How to remove ‘All’ options from a Tableau auto-filter?
The auto-filter provides a feature of removing ‘All’ options by simply clicking the down arrow in the auto-filter heading. You can scroll down to ‘Customize’ in the dropdown and then uncheck the ‘Show “All” Value’ attribute. It can be activated by checking the field again.
25.How to add Custom Color to Tableau?
Adding a Custom Color refers to a power tool in Tableau. Restart you Tableau desktop once you save .tps file. From the Measures pane, drag the one you want to add color to Color. From the color legend menu arrow, select Edit Colors. When a dialog box opens, select the palette drop-down list and customize as per requirement.
26.What is TDE file?
Firstly, TDE is a columnar store.
The second is how they are structured which impacts how they are loaded into memory and used by Tableau. This is an important aspect of how TDEs are “architecture aware”. Architecture-awareness means that TDEs use all parts of your computer memory, from RAM to hard disk, and put each part to work what best fits its characteristics.
27.Mention whether you can create relational joins in Tableau without creating a new table?
Yes, one can create relational joins in tableau without creating a new table.
28. How to automate reports?
You need to publish report to tableau server, while publishing you will find one option to schedule reports.You just need to select the time when you want to refresh data.
29.What is Assume referential integrity?
In some cases, you can improve query performance by selecting the option to Assume Referential Integrity from the Data menu. When you use this option, Tableau will include the joined table in the query only if it is specifically referenced by fields in the view.
30.Explain when would you use Joins vs. Blending in Tableau?
If data resides in a single source, it is always desirable to use Joins. When your data is not in one place blending is the most viable way to create a left join like the connection between your primary and secondary data sources.
31.What is default Data Blending Join?
Data blending is the ability to bring data from multiple data sources into one Tableau view, without the need for any special coding. A default blend is equivalent to a left outer join. However, by switching which data source is primary, or by filtering nulls, it is possible to emulate left, right and inner joins.
32.What do you understand by blended axis?
In Tableau, measures can share a single axis so that all the marks are shown in a single pane. Instead of adding rows and columns to the view, when you blend measures there is a single row or column and all of the values for each measure is shown along one continuous axis.
33.What is story in Tableau?
A story is a sheet that contains a sequence of worksheets or dashboards that work together to convey information. You can create stories to show how facts are connected, provide context, demonstrate how decisions relate to outcomes, or simply make a compelling case. Each individual sheet in a story is called a story point.
34.What is the difference between discrete and continuous in Tableau?
Discrete data roles are values that are counted as distinct and separate and can only take individual values within a range. Examples: number of threads in a sheet, customer name or row ID or State. Discrete values are shown as blue pills on the shelves and blue icons in the data window.
Continuous data roles are used to measure continuous data and can take on any value within a finite or infinite interval. Examples: unit price, time and profit or order quantity. Continuous variables behave in a similar way in that they can take on any value. Continuous values are shown as green pills.
35.How to create stories in Tableau?
Click the New Story tab.In the lower-left corner of the screen, choose a size for your story. Choose from one of the predefined sizes, or set a custom size, in pixels.By default, your story gets its title from its sheet name. To edit it, double-click the title. You can also change your title’s font, color, and alignment. Click Apply to view your changes.To start building your story, drag a sheet from the Story tab on the left and drop it into the center of the viewClick Add a caption to summarize the story point.To highlight a key takeaway for your viewers, drag a text object over to the story worksheet and type your comment.To further highlight the main idea of this story point, you can change a filter or sort on a field in the view, then save your changes by clicking Update above the navigator box.
36.What is the DRIVE Program Methodology?
Tableau Drive is a methodology for scaling out self-service analytics. Drive is based on best practices from successful enterprise deployments. The methodology relies on iterative, agile methods that are faster and more effective than traditional long-cycle deployment.
A cornerstone of this approach is a new model of partnership between business and IT.
37.How to use group in calculated field?Using groups in a calculation.
You cannot reference ad-hoc groups in a calculation.Blend data using groups created in the secondary data source: Only calculated groups can be used in data blending if the group was created in the secondary data source.Use a group in another workbook. You can easily replicate a group in another workbook by copy and pasting a calculation.39. Mention what is the difference between published data sources and embedded data sources in Tableau?
Published data source: It contains connection information that is independent of any workbook and can be used by multiple workbooks.
Embedded data source: It contains connection information and is associated with a workbook.
38.Mention what are different Tableau files?
Workbooks: Workbooks hold one or more worksheets and dashboards
Bookmarks: It contains a single worksheet and its an easy way to quickly share your work
Packaged Workbooks: It contains a workbook along with any supporting local file data and background images
Data Extraction Files: Extract files are a local copy of a subset or entire data source
Data Connection Files: It’s a small XML file with various connection information’
39.How to embed views onto Webpages?
You can embed interactive Tableau views and dashboards into web pages, blogs, wiki pages, web applications, and intranet portals. Embedded views update as the underlying data changes, or as their workbooks are updated on Tableau Server. Embedded views follow the same licensing and permission restrictions used on Tableau Server. That is, to see a Tableau view that’s embedded in a web page, the person accessing the view must also have an account on Tableau Server.
40.Design a view in a map such that if user selects any state, the cities under that state has to show profit and sales.
Step 1: Double click on the state field
Step 2: Drag the city and drop it into Marks card.
Step 3: Drag the sales and drop it into size.
Step 4: Drag profit and drop it into color.
Step 5: Click on size legend and increase the size.
Step 6: Right click on state field and select show quick filter.
Step 7: Select any state now and check the view.
41.Suppose my license expires today, will users be able to view dashboards or workbooks which I published in the server earlier?
If your server license expires today, your username on the server will have the role ‘unlicensed’ which means you cannot access but others can. The site admin can change the ownership to another person so that the extracts do not fail.
42.Is Tableau software good for strategic acquisition?
Yes! For sure. It gives you data insight to the extent that other tools can’t. Moreover, it also helps you to plan and point the anomalies and improvise your process for betterment of your company.
43.Can we place an excel file in a shared location and and use it to develop a report and refresh it in regular intervals?
Can we place an excel file in a shared location and and use it to develop a report and refresh it in regular intervals?
44.Can Tableau be installed on MacOS?
Yes, Tableau Desktop can be installed on both on Mac and Windows Operating System.
45.What is the maximum no. of rows Tableau can utilize at one time?
ableau is not restricted by the no. of rows in the table. Customers use Tableau to access petabytes of data because it only retrieves the rows and columns needed to answer your questions.
46.When publishing workbooks on Tableau online, sometimes a error about needing to extract appears. Why does it happen occasionally?
This happens when a user is trying to publish a workbook that is connected to an internal server or a file stored on a local drive, such as a SQL server that is within a company’s network.
I hope that this Tableau Interview Questions were helpful to you. I will be coming up withmore blogs on Tableau for you all very soon.
47.What is data visualization in Tableau?
Data visualization is a way to represent data that is visually appealing and interactive. With advancements in technology, the number of business intelligence tools has increased which helps users understand data, data sets, data points, charts, graphs, and focus on its impact rather than understanding the tool itself.
48.What is the difference between various BI tools and Tableau?
The architecture of Traditional BI tools has hardware limitations. While Tableau does not have any sort of dependencies
The traditional BI tools work on complex technologies while Tableau uses simple associative search to make it dynamic.
Traditional BI tools do not support multi-thread, in-memory, or multi-core computing while Tableau supports all these features after integrating complex technologies.
Traditional BI tools have a pre-defined data view while Tableau does a predictive analysis for business operations.
49.What are different Tableau products?Tableau Desktop:
Desktop product is used to create optimized queries out from pictures of data. Once the queries are ready, you can perform those queries without the need to code. Tableau desktop encompasses data from various sources into its data engine and creates an interactive dashboard. Tableau Server: When you have published dashboards using Tableau Desktop, Tableau servers help in sharing them throughout the organization. It is an enterprise-level feature that is installed on a Windows or Linux server. Tableau Reader: Tableau Reader is a free feature available on Desktop that lets you open and views data visualizations. You can filter or drill down the data but restricts editing any formulas or performing any kind of actions on it. It is also used to extract connection files. Tableau Online: Tableau online is also a paid feature but doesn’t need exclusive installation. It comes with the software and is used to share the published dashboards anywhere and everywhere. Tableau Public: Tableau public is yet another free feature to view your data visualizations by saving them as worksheets or workbooks on Tableau Server.
50.What is a parameter in Tableau?
All: Simple text field
List: List of possible values to select from
Range: Select values from a specified range
51.Tell me something about measures and dimensions?
In Tableau, when we connect to a new data source, each field in the data source is either mapped as measures or dimensions. These fields are the columns defined in the data source. Each field is assigned a dataType (integer, string, etc.) and a role (discrete dimension or continuous measure).
Measures contain numeric values that are analyzed by a dimension table. Measures are stored in a table that allows storage of multiple records and contains foreign keys referring uniquely to the associated dimension tables.
52.What is aggregation and disaggregation of data?
SUM (expression): Adds up all the values used in the expression. Used only for numeric values.
AVG (expression): Calculates the average of all the values used in the expression. Used only for numeric values.
Median (expression): Calculates the median of all the values across all the records used in the expression. Used only for numeric values.
Count (expression): Returns the number of values in the set of expressions. Excludes null values.
Count (distinct): Returns the number of unique values in the set of expressions.
53.What are continuous and discrete field types?
Tableau’s specialty lies in displaying data differently either in continuous format or discrete. Both of them are mathematical terms used to define data where continuous means without interruptions and discrete means are individually separate and distinct.
While the blue color indicates discrete behavior, the green color indicates continuous behavior. On one hand, the discrete view defines the headers and can be easily sorted, while continuous defines the axis in a graph view and cannot be sorted.
54.What are the different types of joins in Tableau?
Left Outer Join: Extracts all the records from the left table and the matching rows from the right table.
Right Outer Join: Extracts all the records from the right table and the matching rows from the left table.
Full Outer Join: Extracts the records from both the left and right tables. All unmatched rows go with the NULL value.
Inner Join: Extracts the records from both tables.
55.Tell me the different connections to make with a dataset?
LIVE: Live connection is a dynamic way to extract real-time data by directly connecting to the data source. Tableau directly creates queries against the database entries and retrieves the query results in a workbook.
EXTRACT: A snapshot of the data, extract the file (.tde or .hyper file) contains data from a relational database. The data is extracted from a static source of data like an Excel Spreadsheet. You can schedule to refresh the snapshots which are done using the Tableau server. This doesn’t need any connection with the database
56.What are the supported file extensions in Tableau?
Tableau Workbook (TWB): contains all worksheets, story points, dashboards, etc.
Tableau Data Source (TDS): contains connection information and metadata about your data source
Tableau Data Extract (TDE): contains data that has been extracted from other data sources.
Tableau Packaged Workbook (TWBX): contains a combination of the workbook, connection data, and metadata, and the data itself in the form of TDE. It can be zipped and shared.
Tableau Packaged Data Source (TDSX): contains a combination of different files.
Tableau Bookmark (TBM): to earmark a specific worksheet
57.What are the supported data types in Tableau?The following data types are supported in Tableau:
| DataType | Possible Values |
| Boolean | True/False |
| Date | Date Value (December 28, 2016) |
| Date & Time | Date & Timestamp values (December 28, 2016 06:00:00 PM) |
| Geographical Values | Geographical Mapping (Beijing, Mumbai) |
| Text/String | Text/String |
| Number | Decimal (8.00) |
| Number | Whole Number (5) |
58.What are sets?
Sets are custom fields created as a subset of the data in your Tableau desktop. Sets can be computed based on conditions or created manually based on the dimensions of the data source.
For example, A set of customers that earned revenue more than some value. Now, set data may update dynamically based on the conditions applied.
60.What are groups in Tableau?
Groups are created to visualize larger memberships using dimensions. Groups can create their own fields to categorize values in that specific dimension.
61.What are shelves?
Tableau worksheets contain various named elements like columns, rows, marks, filters, pages, etc. which are called shelves. You can place fields on shelves to create visualizations, increase the level of detail, or add context to it
62.Tell me something about Data blending in Tableau?
Data blending is viewing and analyzing data from multiple sources in one place. Primary and secondary are two types of data sources that are involved in data blending
63.How do you generally perform load testing in Tableau?
Load testing in Tableau is done to understand the server’s capacity with respect to its environment, data, workload, and use. It is preferable to conduct load testing at least 3-4 times in a year because with every new user, upgrade, or content authoring, the usage, data, and workload change.
- Tabjolt was created by Tableau to conduct point-and-run load and performance testing specifically for Tableau servers. Tabjolt:
- Automates the process of user-specified loads
- Eliminates dependency on script development or script maintenance
- Scales linearly with an increase in the load by adding more nodes to the cluster
64.Why would someone not use Tableau?
The limitations of using Tableau are:
Not cost-effective: Tableau is not that cost-effective when we compare it well with the other available data visualization tools. In addition to this, it has software upgrades, proper deployment, maintenance, and also training people for using the tool.
Not so secure: When it comes to data, everyone is extra cautious. Tableau focussed on security issues but fails to provide centralized data-level security. It pushes for row-level security and creates an account for every user which makes it more prone to security glitches.
BI capabilities are not enough: Tableau lacks basic BI capabilities like large-scale reporting, building data tables, or creating static layouts. It has limited result-sharing capabilities, email notification configuration is limited to admins, and the vendor doesn’t support trigger-based notifications.
65.What is Tableau data engine?
An analytical database that computes instant query responses, predictive analysis of the server, and integrated data. The data engine is useful when you need to create, refresh, or query extracts. It can be used for cross-database joins as well
66.What are the various types of filters in Tableau?
ableau has 6 different types of filters:
Extract Filter: This filter retrieves a subset of data from the data source.
Dimension Filter: This filter is for non-aggregated data (discrete).
Data Source Filter: This filter refrains users from viewing sensitive information and thus reduces data feeds.
Context Filter: This filter creates datasets by applying presets in Tableau.
Measure Filter: This filter applies various operations like sum, median, avg, etc.
Table Calculation Filter: This filter is applied after the view has been created
67.What are extracts and schedules in Tableau server?
Data extracts are the subsets of data created from data sources. Schedules are scheduled refreshes made on extracts after publishing the workbook. This keeps the data up-to-date. Schedules are strictly managed by the server administrators
68.What are dual axes?
Dual axes are used to analyze two different measures at two different scales in the same graph. This lets you compare multiple attributes on one graph with two independent axes layered one above the other.
To add a measure as a dual-axis, drag the field to the right side of the view and drop it when you see a black dashed line appear. You can also right-click (control-click on Mac) the measure on the Columns or Rows shelf and select Dual Axis.
69.What is a TDE file?
TDE is Tableau Desktop Extension with extension .tde. TDE file points to a file that contains data from external sources like MS Excel, MS Access, or CSV files. TDE makes it easier to analyze and discover data.
70.What is the story in Tableau?
Click the New Story on the dashboard.
Choose the right size of the story from the bottom-left corner or choose a custom size.
Start building the story by double-clicking the sheet and add it to the story point.
Add a caption to the story by clicking Add a caption.
You can update the highlights by clicking Update in the toolbar. You can also add layout options, format a story, or fit the story to your dashboard.
71.What are different Tableau files?
Workbooks: Workbooks contain one or more worksheets and dashboard elements.
Bookmarks: Contains a single worksheet that is easier to share.
Packaged Workbooks: Contains a workbook along with supporting local file data and background images.
Data Extraction Files: Extract files that contain a subset of data.
Data Connection Files: Small XML file with various connection information
72.How do you embed views into webpages?
You can easily integrate interactive views from your Tableau Server or Tableau online onto webpages, blogs, web applications, or internet portals. But to have a look at the views, the permissions demand the viewer to create an account on the Tableau Server. To embed views, click the Share button on the top of the view and copy the embed code to paste it on the web page.You can also customize the embedded code or Tableau Javascript APIs to embed views.
73.What is the maximum no. of rows Tableau can utilize at one time?
The maximum number of rows or columns is indefinite because even though Tableau contains petabytes of data, it intelligently uses only those rows and columns which you need to extract for your purpose.
74.Mention what is the difference between published data sources and embedded data sources in Tableau?
Connection information is the details of data that you want to bring into Tableau. Before publishing it, you can create an extract of the same.
Published Data Source: It contains connection information that is independent of any workbook.
Embedded Data Source: It contains connection information which is connected to a workbook
75.What is the DRIVE Program Methodology?
DRIVE program methodology creates a structure around data analytics derived from enterprise deployments. The drive methodology is iterative in nature and includes agile methods that are faster and effective
76.How to use groups in a calculated field?
Using groups in a calculation. You cannot reference ad-hoc groups in a calculation.
Blend data using groups created in the secondary data source: Only calculated groups can be used in data blending if the group was created in the secondary data source.
Use a group in another workbook. You can easily replicate a group in another workbook by copy and pasting a calculation.
77.Explain when would you use Joins vs. Blending in Tableau?
While the two terms may sound similar, there is a difference in their meaning and use in Tableau:
While Join is used to combine two or more tables within the same data source.
Blending is used to combine data from multiple data sources such as Oracle, Excel, SQL server, etc.
78.What is Assume referential integrity?
In some cases, you can improve query performance by selecting the option to Assume Referential Integrity from the Data menu. When you use this option, Tableau will include the joined table in the query only if it is specifically referenced by fields in the view.
79.What is a Calculated Field, and How Will You Create One?
Calculated fields are created using formulas based on other fields. These fields do not exist but are created by you.
You can create these fields to:
Segment data
Convert the data type of a field, such as converting a string to a date.
Aggregate data
Filter results
Calculate ratios
80.How Can You Display the Top Five and Bottom Five Sales in the Same View?
Drag ‘customer name’ to row and sales to the column.
Sort Sum(sales) in descending order.
Create a calculated field ‘Rank of Sales’.
81.What is the Rank Function in Tableau?
Rank: The rank function in Tableau accepts two arguments: aggregated measure and ranking order (optional) with a default value of desc.
Rank_dense: The rank_dense also accepts the two arguments: aggregated measure and ranking order. This assigns the same rank to the same values but doesn’t stop there and keeps incrementing with the other values. For instance, if you have values 10, 20, 20, 30, then ranks will be 1, 2, 2, 3.
Rank_modified: The rank_modified assigns the same rank to similar values.
Rank_unique: The rank_unique assigns a unique rank to each and every value. For example, If the values are 10, 20, 20, 30 then the assigned ranks will be 1,2,3,4 respectively
82.What is the difference between Tableau and other similar tools like QlikView or IBM Cognos?
Tableau is an intuitive data visualization tool simplifying the story creation by simple drag and drop techniques. On the other hand, BI tools like QlikView or Cognos convert data into metadata to let the users explore data relations. If your presentation runs around presenting data in aesthetic visualizations then opt for Tableau. If not, and might need a full BI platform then go for Cognos/QlikView
The ease of use or extracting data details is easier in Tableau than compared to extensive BI tools like Cognos. With Tableau, your team members, be it a guy from sales can easily read the data and give insights. But with Cognos, only members with extensive tool knowledge are appreciated and welcomed.
83.What is data visualization?
Data visualization means the graphical representation of data or information. We can use visual objects like graphs, charts, bars, and a lot more. Data visualization tools provide an accessible way to see and understand the data easily.
84.List out Tableau File Extensions.
Tableau Workbook (.twb)
Tableau Data extract (.tde)
Tableau Datasource (.tds)
Tableau Packaged Datasource (.tdsx)
Tableau Bookmark (.tbm)
Tableau Map Source (.tms)
Tableau Packaged Workbook (.twbx) – zip file containing .twb and external files.
Tableau Preferences (.tps)
85.What is the latest version of Tableau Desktop?
Tableau Desktop’s latest version is 2021.3(as of, 7thSep 2021).
86.Define LOD Expression?
LOD Expression stands for Level of Detail Expression, and it is used to run complex queries involving many dimensions at the data sourcing level.
87.Define Heat Map?
A heat map is a graphical representation of data that uses the color-coding technique to represent different values of data. As the marks heat up due to their higher value, dark colors will be shown on the map.
88.Define TreeMap?
TreeMap is a visualization that organizes data hierarchically and shows them as a set of nested rectangles. The size and colors of rectangles are respective to the values of the data points they project. Parent rectangles will be tiled with their child elements.
89.What are the different data types in Tableau?
Tableau supports below data types.Data TypeMeaningExamplesStringCharacter Sequence. Enclosed in ”.Tableau’, ‘World’Number (Whole)Integers9Number (decimal)Floating values.123.45BooleanThey are logical values.TRUE, FALSEDateDate”02/01/2015″Date & TimeDate and Time01 January 2019 05:55:00 PMGeographic ValuesGeographical ValuesIndia, Italy, Canada
90.Give a brief about the tableau dashboard?
Tableau dashboard is a group of various views which allows you to compare different types of data simultaneously. Datasheets and dashboards are connected if any modification happens to the data that directly reflects in dashboards. It is the most efficient approach to visualize the data and analyze it.
91.Define Page Shelf in Tableau?
Page shelf breaks the views into a series of pages. It displays an alternate view on each page. Due to this feature, you can analyze the effect of each field on the rest of the data in the view.
92.Define the story in Tableau?
The story can be defined as a sheet which is a collection of series of worksheets and dashboards used to convey the insights of data. A story can be used to show the connection between facts and outcomes that impacts the decision-making process. A story can be published on the web or can be presented to the audience.
93.Give an overview of the fact and dimensions of the table?
Facts are numeric measures of data. They are stored in fact tables. Fact tables store that type of data that will be analyzed by dimension tables. Fact tables have foreign keys associating with dimension tables.
Dimensions are descriptive attributes of data. Those will be stored in the dimensions table. For example, customer’s information like name, number, and email will be stored in the dimension table.
94.State some ways to improve the performance of Tableau
Use an Extract to make workbooks run faster
Reduce the scope of data to decrease the volume of data
Reduce the number of marks on the view to avoid information overload
Try to use integers or Booleans in calculations as they are much faster than strings
Hide unused fields
Use Context filters
Reduce filter usage and use some alternative way to achieve the same result
Use indexing in tables and use the same fields for filtering
Remove unnecessary calculations and sheets
95.Explain different connection types in Tableau?
Extract: Extract is a snapshot of data that will be extracted from the data source and put into the Tableau repository. This snapshot can be refreshed periodically fully or incrementally. This can be scheduled in Tableau Server.
Live: It creates a direct connection to the data source and data will be fetched directly from tables. So, data will be up to date and consistent. But, this also affects access speed.
96.What are the different Joins in Tableau?
Tableau works the same as SQL. So, it supports all Joins possible in SQL
Left Outer Join
Right Outer Join
Full Outer Join
Inner Join
97.What is Data Modelling?
Data modeling is the analysis of data objects that are used in a business or other context and also used as identification of the relationships among these data objects. It is the first step of doing object-oriented programming
98.Define blended axis?
Multiple measures can share in a single axis so that all the marks will be shown in a single pane. We can blend measures by dragging the 1st measure on one axis and the 2nd on the existing axis.
99.Define shelves and sets?
Shelves: Every worksheet in Tableau will have shelves such as columns, rows, marks, filters, pages, and more. By placing filters on shelves we can build our own visualization structure. We can control the marks by including or excluding data.
Sets: The sets are used to compute a condition on which the dataset will be prepared. Data will be grouped together based on a condition. Fields which is responsible for grouping are known assets. For example – students having grades of more than 70%.
100.Define Dual-axis?
Dual-axis is used to show 2 measures in a single graph. It allows you to compare 2 measures at once. Many websites like indeed use this Dual-axis to show the comparisons and growth rate.
101.Explain the limitation of context filters in Tableau?
Whenever we set a context filter, Tableau generates a temp table that needs to refresh each and every time, whenever the view is triggered. So, if the context filter is changed in the database, it needs to recompute the temp table, so the performance will be decreased.
102.What is Mark Card in Tableau?
There is a card to the left of the view where we can drag fields and control mark properties like color, size, type, shape, detail, label, and tooltip.
103.Define published data source?
When you are ready to make a data source available to other tableau desktop users. You can publish it to the tableau server or online. Or else you can make it available by saving the same like embedded excel or text file.
104.Define dual axis?
Dual-axis is used to show 2 measures in a single graph. It allows you to compare 2 measures at once. Many websites like indeed use this dual-axis to show the comparisons and growth rate.
105.Define Bullet graph?
A bullet graph is a variant of Bar graph. It is responsible for comparing the performance of one measure with other measures.
106.Define Gantt chart?
Gantt Chart displays the progress of value over the period. It consists of bars along with the time axis. It is a project management tool. Here, each bar is a measure of a task in the project framework.
107.Define a Histogram chart?
A histogram chart shows the distribution of continuous information over a certain period of time. This chart helps us to find extreme points, gaps, unusual values, and more concentrated values.
108.What are the file size limitations with Tableau?
In Tableau, there are no limitations with the file sizes. And moreover, there is no row or column limit to import the data.
109.What is Tableau Reader?
Tableau Reader is a free desktop application, where you can read and interact with the Tableau packaged workbooks. It can only open the files but cannot create new connections to the workbook.
110.What is the difference between published data and embedded data sources?
The published data source contains connection information that is independent of workbooks and can be used by multiple workbooks.The embedded data source contains connection information but it is associated with the workbooks.
111.What is the Hierarchy in Tableau?
When we are working with large volumes of data, incredibly data may be messed. With Tableau, you can easily create hierarchies to keep your data neat. Even if you don’t need it, it is built into your data, which you can easily manage or organize the data and you can track the data easily.
112.What is a Column chart?
A column chat visualizes the data as a set of rectangle columns, as their lengths are proportional to values when they represent the data. The horizontal axis shows the category to which they belong, and the vertical axis shows the values.
113.What is the Bar Chart in Tableau?
The bar chart visualizes the data as a set of rectangle bars, as their values are proportional to lengths when they represent the data. The vertical axis shows the category to which they belong to and the horizontal axis shows the values. So, the bar chart is a vertical version of the Column chart.
114.What is the Line Chart?
The line chart is a popular type of diagrammatic way for visualizing the data, it connects the individual data points to view the data. We can easily visualize the series of values, we can see trends over time or predict future values. The horizontal axis holds the category to which it belongs and the vertical axis holds the values.
115.What is a Stacked Bar chart?
Stacked Bar Chart, composed of multiple bars stacked horizontally, one below the other. The length of the bar depends on the value in the data point. A stacked bar chart makes the work easier, they will help us to know the changes in all variables presented, side by side. We can watch the changes in their total and forecast future values.
116.What is a Stacked Column Chart?
Stacked Column Chart, composed of multiple bars stacked vertically, one on another. The length of the bar depends on the value in the data point. A stacked column chart is the best one to know the changes in all variables. This type of chart should be checked when the number of series is higher than two.
117.What is an Area Chart?
An area chart is nothing but line chat, the area between the x-axis and lines will be color or patterns. These charts are typically used to represent accumulated totals over time and are the conventional way to display stacked lines
118.How to download Tableau Public?
Step 1: Go to public.tableau.com and enter your e-mail address and click “ Download the App “.Step 2: After downloading the file, run the file and follow the prompts to install the Tableau.Step 3: Now, you can see the Tableau shortcut on your desktop.Step 4: Double click on the icon, to load tableau public. Now you see the screen as below.
119.What is Context Filter and show the steps on how to create the Context Filter Tableau?
Context Filters are applied to the data rows before any other filters. They are limited to views, but they can be applied on selected sheets. They define Aggregation and Disaggregation of data in Tableau
Step 1: Drag the subcategory dimensions to the row shelf and measure sales to the column shelf. Now choose the horizontal bar chart as chart type and again drag the sub-category dimensions to the filter shelf. Then we will get the following chart.
Step 2: Right-click on the Sub-Category field in the filter shelf and go to the Top fourth tab. Choose the option field, from the next drop-down and choose the option Top 10 by Sales Sum as shown in the following screenshot.
Step 3: Drag the dimension Category to the filter shelf. Give right-click on the general tab to edit and under that choose Furniture from the list. As you can see the result shows three subcategories of products.
Step 4: Right-click the Category: Furniture filter and select the option Add to Context. This produces the final result, which shows the subcategory of products from the category Furniture which are among the top 10 subcategories across all the products.
120.What are the products offered by Tableau? Explain a few things about them.
Tableau has 4 main products.
Tableau Prep: Tableau Prep is responsible for preparing data for analysis. This tool provides 3 coordinated views which provide us with a complete picture of data.
Tableau Desktop: Tableau Desktop is the place where the analysis happens. It has powerful drag and drops analytics which is very easy to use. Through the desktop, you get your data insights quickly.
Tableau Online: Tableau Online is a secure and scalable self-service analytics cloud tool. You can use it anywhere, anytime and it has eliminated the complexities of IT.
Tableau Server: From small to large enterprises, Tableau server is used for fulfilling their BI requirements. This is an on-premise solution. This tool can take data from anywhere and shared it across the organization through the desktop or mobile browsers.
121.Differentiate parameters and filters in Tableau
Filters are the simpler and straightforward feature in Tableau. It applies to dimensions or measures directly. For example, to only show Gujarat or Karnataka in a State dimension, we can apply the filter on that. In Tableau, there are multiple UI options available for filters like radio buttons, drop-down lists, checkboxes, sliders, and more. Filters on sheets are also available in Tableau.
Parameters are like variables. They are complex and more powerful. Like a variable, a parameter can be used in calculations. So, that means, it only allows a single value. Parameters have the same UI options except for checkboxes because checkboxes don’t have a single value. For example, we can create a parameter for interest rate and period, and then we can use these parameters to calculate interest and principal payments.
122.Explain how many types of filters are available in Tableau?
Filters are used to provide the correct information to viewers after removing unnecessary data. There are various types of filters available in Tableau.Extract Filters – Extract filters are used to apply filters on extracted data from the data source. For this filter, data is extracted from the data source and placed into the Tableau data repository.Datasource Filters – Datasource filters are the same as extract filters. They also work on the extracted dataset. But, the only difference is it works with both live and extract connections.Context Filters – Context Filters are applied on the data rows before any other filters. They are limited to views, but they can be applied on selected sheets. They define Aggregation and Disaggregation of data in TableauDimension Filters – Dimension filters are used to apply filters on dimensions in worksheets. Dimension filters are applied through the top or bottom conditions, formula, and wildcard match.Measure Filters – Measure filters are applied to the values present in the measures.
123.Differentiate between Tiled and Floating in dashboards?
In a tiled layout, items don’t overlap. The layout will be adjusted according to dashboard size. In the floating layout, items can be placed on some other layers. Floating items can have fixed positions and sizes.
124.Categorize dimensions in Tableau?
Slowly ever-changing dimension: The value of the dimension changes over an amount of time for slowly ever-changing dimensions.
Example – student of worker
125.Explain the disaggregation and aggregation of data in Tableau?
Aggregation → The process of summarizing the data and viewing a single numeric value is called aggregation. Example – sum/avg of salary for each employee
Disaggregation →The process of viewing each transaction for analyzing all the measures both dependently and independently. Example – individual salary transactions for each employee.
126.State the components of the dashboard?
Web: it consists of a web page embedded in the dashboard.
Horizontal component: it is a horizontal layout container in which we can add objects.
Vertical component: it is a vertical layout container in which we can add objects.
Image Extract: it allows you to upload an image to the dashboard from a computer.
Text: it is a small Wordpad where we can format and edit the text.
127.Differentiate discrete and continuous data roles in Tableau
Discrete data roles consist of values that are separate and distinct. Discrete data roles can take individual values within a range. For Example – cancer patients in the hospital, no. of threads in a sheet, state. Discrete values are displayed as blue icons in the data window and blue pills on shelves. Discrete fields can be sorted.
128.What is the difference between Traditional BI Tools and Tableau?
Traditional BI Tableau BI Architecture has hardware limitations. Tableau does not have dependencies. It does not support in-memory, multi-thread, and multi-core computing. It supports memory when using advanced technologies. It has a predefined view of data. It uses predictive analysis for various business operations. We should need a good knowledge of BI and skills. It is easy working and understanding without the knowledge of BI and the skills data security is provided data security is not provided for the public, whereas in the professional version.
129.Define performance testing in terms of Tableau
We can create performance recordings to keep track of performance details of main events while interacting with workbooks. Then, these performance metrics can be viewed by the user and analyzed. Navigation to start/stop performance recording is Help→Settings and Performance>→ Start Performance Recording Help→ Setting and Performance → Stop Performance Recording
Review the logs created by Tableau Desktop. The location for log files is C:UsersMy DocumentsMy Tableau Repository.
For live connection, check the log files log.txt and tabprotosrv.txt.
For Extract connection, check the log file tdeserver.txt
130.What is the difference between .twb and .twbx extensions?
.twb means Tableau workbook. .twb is an XML sheet, it stores the data about your documents, stories, and dashboards. This file is the reference to the source file such as Excel or tde. This file will be linked to your source file when you save the TWB file. If you want to share your workbook you need to send both the workbook and data source file
131.Why Tableau?
Tableau is very simple and user-friendly.
Tableau helps in analyzing the data and using this one can change the raw data into an understandable format.
Users can blend the data with the other data to create their own views on the data and to share it with the customers, and colleagues.
Users can manage a large amount of data.
It can easily integrate with multiple data sources.
Tableau can create complex graphs which simply look like pivot table graphs in Excel.
It gives quick calculations on datasets.
Users can create the visuals easily and switch between the types, to find the model to represent the user messages.
132.How to create a calculated field in Tableau?
Step 1: Select Analysis -> drop down will open -> Select create calculated field
Step 2: Calculation Editor Box will open, give the name to the calculated field.
Step 3: Enter a formula in the calculation editor.
Example: Sum(Profits)/Sum(Sales). (Calculation Editor validates the formula)
Step 4: Click, Ok.
Now, the new calculated field added to the data pane.
133.Are there any limitations of parameters in Tableau? If yes, give details.
Tableau dashboard allows the representation of parameters in four ways only. They don’t allow any multiple values like a filter can do. They only allow a single value.
134.State some reasons for the low performance of Tableau? Explain in detail.
Filters – filters need to create an extra query and if it used in large numbers and inefficiently then they can reduce the performance. So, it is advised to use filters whenever it is mandatory
Live connection – Tableau extract works much better in comparison with a live connection.
Data sources – a wrong query to a wrong data source can reduce performance. Also, the data source’s performance can also affect Tableau’s performance.
135.State some ways to improve the performance of Tableau.
Use an Extract to make workbooks run faster
Reduce the scope of data to decrease the volume of data
Reduce the number of marks on the view to avoid information overload
Try to use integers or Booleans in calculations as they are much faster than strings
Hide unused fields
Use Context filters
Reduce filter usage and use some alternative way to achieve the same result
Use indexing in tables and use the same fields for filtering
Remove unnecessary calculations and sheets
136.Tell me different ways to use parameters in Tableau
Filters
Calculated fields
Actions
Measure-swaps
Changing views
Auto-updates
137.Can we see SQL generated by Tableau Desktop?
Tableau Desktop Log files are placed in C: UsersMy DocumentsMy Tableau Repository. In case of live connection to any data source, check the log file “log.txt” and “tabprotosrv.txt” files. In case of extract connection to any data source, check the “tdeserver.txt” file which has detailed information about queries.
138.Can we remove the All options from a Tableau auto-filter?
Go to the Segment filter, Click on the small drop arrow which is on the right side.
Select Customize.
Then we can visible a small dropbox under customize, uncheck the option for “ All” Value.
139.Which one is better? Extract or Live connection?
Extract connection is better than live connection because extract connection can be used from anywhere, anytime without connecting to the database. We can construct our own visualizations on it irrespective of the database connection.
140.Tell me something about the workbook version controlled in Tableau.
Versioning of workbooks can be done in 2 ways in Tableau.
At the desktop level, you keep copies of your changes and files or using 3rd party system like Microsoft TFS.
At the server level, where you publish the data source and version will be saved in revision history on Tableau Server or Online. Reverting to a previous version is also possible here.
141.Where can we apply global filters?
Global filters can be applied to sheets, stories, and dashboards.
142.How to add custom color to Tableau?
Generate custom color code and create it in “Preferences.tps”
Navigate to Documents→ My Table Repository→ Preferences.tps
Add a note for custom color code
143.Can we create cascading filters without using context filters?
Cascading filters means filter2 values are dependent on filter1 values. For Example, filter1 is country and if we select “India” for filter1, filter2 values should show all Indian states. This feature we can achieve by using the option “Only Relevant Values”.
144.How can we display the top and bottom 5 of records in a single Tableau view?
View1 which contains the top 5 records
View2 which contains the bottom 5 records
View3 which is a join of View1 and View2
145.State a few charts which we should not use with valid reasons
3D Charts: Visual representation of numbers in 3D charts will be skewed and it makes it difficult to compare and analyze.
Pie Charts: Pie charts are not that much accurate as bar charts. In Pie charts, we have areas and angles to compare instead of length in a bar chart. Areas and angles cannot be analyzed with ease.
Donut Charts: This is the same as Pie chart, but here, we have a hole in the middle to make it look like a donut. Due to that hole, we need to compare arc length with other arcs to analyze the values. Comparing arcs lengths is also a difficult task for our eyes.
146.Do we have any way to handle null values in Tableau?
Filter Data – If you choose this option, null values will be filtered out from the view.
Show Data at Default Position – It replaces the null value with the default value and shows the data at the default position on-axis. These default values depend on the data type of field. Below here are the defaults of a specific data type.
Numbers →0
Dates → 12-31-1899
Geographic Location → (0,0)
Negative Values → 1
147.Can we download views or workbooks from the server? If yes, in which data formats?
We can download views or workbooks from the server. But, data formats available to us depend on the permissions granted by site administrators or content owners.
Image: .png format
Data: .csv file.
We can also download selected sheets into PDF format, but while generating PDF, web page objects won’t be included.
148.Do we have any data limitations in Tableau Public?
Yes, Tableau Public can only allow 10 million rows to users for data visualization.
149.Can we use unused columns (Columns that are not used in reports but data source has columns) in Tableau Filters?
Yes, we can use unused columns in tableau filters.
Let us consider one example.
In data source, I have column like emp_id, emp_name, emp_sal, emp_dep, emp_designation. But, in reports, I am using emp_name in columns and emp-sal in rows. I can use emp_designation on filters.
150.What is the benefit of the Tableau extract file over the live connection?
Extract files can be used without any connections and you can build your own visualization without connecting to the database.
151.How many tables join are possible in Tableau?
We can join 32 tables in Tableau.
152.Can we place an excel file in a shared location and use it to develop a report and refresh it in regular intervals?
Yes, we can place an excel file in a shared location and we can use it to develop a report, but for better performance, we need to extract the file.
153.How do we do testing in Tableau?
Yes, we can do testing in Tableau by using tools and the easiest way is using the desktop application. We need to check it before we publish it on the Tableau server.
154.Design a view in a map such that if a user selects any state the cities under that state have to show profit and sales.
Double click on the state filed.
Drag the city and drop it under the state(Mark Card).
Drag the Sales and drop into the size.
Drag the Profit and drop it into the color.
Click on the size legend and increase the size (75%).
Give a right-click on State filed and select show filter.
Select the state and check whether you got the required view or not.
In the View, Size indicates the Sales, and Color indicates the profit of the respective state(which you have selected).
155.How can u set permissions or protect the data in tableau public?
Tableau does not have any security permissions or to protect the data in Tableau public. Whatever we shared in Tableau public those files, workbooks can be viewed by all users. There is no security option in Tableau public.
156.If I delete a workbook from tableau public and there are links to other blogs and other web locations. What happens to them?
Tableau public is like a repository, if you delete anything in the Tableau public the data will be lost, even if links are in other locations and blogs. We cannot access those links.
157.Mention whether you can create relational joins in Tableau without creating a new table?
Yes, we can create relational joins in Tableau without creating a new table
158.Can parameters have a drop-down list?
Yes, Parameters have their own drop-down list, which enables the users to view the data entries which are available in the parameter during the creation.
159.How do you optimize the performance of the dashboard?
Minimize the number of fields.
Minimize the number of records.
Reduce the marks (data points) in your view( remove unneeded dimensions).
Reduce the number of filters.
Use an include filter.
Use a continuous data filter.
Use action filters and parameters.
Reduce the number of nested calculations.
Remove custom SQL.
Clean up your workbooks.
160.Can Tableau be installed on macOS?
Yes, Tableau can be installed on both the Windows Operating system and macOS.
161.How to automate reports in Tableau?
When we are publishing the reports to Tableau Server, there we will find an option to schedule the report, just select the time when you want to refresh the data.
162.Which databases give the best performance when connected live?
Native Database gives the best performance when connected live.
163.What are the challenges faced when working with huge volumes of data?
View running will be slow.
Data Extraction.
Alignment issues with data.
Testing Data.
164.State limitation of context filters in Tableau
Whenever we set a context filter, Tableau generates a temp table that needs to refresh each and every time the view is triggered. So, if the context filter will be changed, the database needs to recompute and rewrite the temp table, which in turn slows down the performance.
165.What is a marks card in Tableau?
There is a card to the left of the view where we can drag fields and control mark properties like color, size, type, shape, detail, label, and tooltip.
166.Define a published data source
The published data source has connection information in it. It is independent of any workbook and can be accessed by multiple workbooks.
167.Define blended axis
Multiple measures can share a single axis so that all the marks will be shown in a single pane. We can blend measures by dragging the 1st measure on one axis and the 2nd on the existing axis.
168.Can we remove the “All” option from the auto-filter in Tableau?
Yes, we can. Navigate to filter→ Right-click on it→ select customize→ uncheck the option “Show All”
169.Define Bullet graph
A bullet graph is a variant of a Bar graph. It is responsible for comparing the performance of one measure with other measures.
170.Define Gantt chart
Gantt Chart displays the progress of value over the period. It consists of bars along with the time axis. It is a project management tool. Here, each bar is a measure of a task in the project framework.
171.Define Histogram chart
A histogram chart shows the distribution of continuous information over a certain period of time. This chart helps us to find extreme points, gaps, unusual values, and more concentrated values.
172.What is Tableau Public?
Tableau Public is an open-source and free service that allows anyone to publish the data source and visualizations to the web. These visualizations can then be embedded into blogs or web pages. They can also be distributed through email or social media.
173.What Are the Data Types Supported in Tableau?
- Text (string) values
- Date values
- Date and time values
- Numerical values
- Boolean values (relational only)
- Geographical values (used with maps)
174.How Will You Understand Dimensions and Measures?
| Dimensions | Measures |
| •Dimensions contain qualitative values (such as names, dates, or geographical data)
•You can use dimensions to categorize, segment, and reveal the details in your data. •Example: Category, City, Country, Customer ID, Customer Name, Order Date, Order ID |
•Measures contain numeric, quantitative values that you can measure (such as Sales, Profit)
•Measures can be aggregated •Example: Profit, Quantity, Rank, Sales, Sales per Customer, Total Orders |
175.What is Meant by ‘discrete’ and ‘continuous’ in Tableau?
Tableau represents data depending on whether the field is discrete (blue) or continuous (green).
Discrete
– “individually separate and distinct.”
Continuous
– “forming an unbroken whole without interruption.”
The values are as shown:
176.What Are the Filters? Name the Different Filters in Tableau.
This is one of the most frequently Tableau interview questions. And you must try giving a thorough answer to this one! Tableau filters are a way of restricting the content of the data that may enter a Tableau workbook, dashboard, or view.
The Different Types of Tableau Filters are:
Extract filters
Context filters
Data source filters
Filters on measures
Filters on dimensions
Table calculation filter
177.What Are the Different Joins in Tableau?
Joining is a method for combining related data on a common key. Below is a table that lists the different types of joins:
178.There Are Three Customer Segments in the Superstore Dataset. What Percent of the Total Profits Are Associated with the Corporate Segment?
Follow these steps:
Drag segment field to the rows shelf. Here, segment consists of Consumer, Corporate, and Home Office
Double-click on the profit field under Measures.
Right-click on SUM (Profit) under marks card, select Quick Table Calculation and click on Percent of the total.
179.What is the Difference Between Joining and Blending?
Combining the data from two or more different sources is data blending, such as Oracle, Excel, and SQL Server. In data blending, each data source contains its own set of dimensions and measures.
180.What is the Difference Between a Live Connection and an Extract?
This is another frequently asked Tableau interview question. Tableau Data Extracts are snapshots of data optimized for aggregation and loaded into system memory to be quickly recalled for visualization.
Example: Hospitals that monitor incoming patient data need to make real-time decisions.
181.What is a Calculated Field, and How Will You Create One?
A calculated field is used to create new (modified) fields from existing data in the data source. It can be used to create more robust visualizations and doesn’t affect the original dataset.
For example, let’s calculate the “average delay to ship.”
The data set considered here has information regarding order date and ship date for four different regions. To create a calculated field:
182.How Can You Display the Top Five and Bottom Five Sales in the Same View?
Drag the Customer Name field to Rows shelf and Profit field to Columns shelf to get the visualization.
Create a set by right-clicking on the Customer Name field. Choose to create an option and click on Set.
Provide the name ‘Top Customers’ to the set. Configure the set by clicking on Top tab, selecting By field, and filling the values as Top, 5, Profit, and Sum.
183.Is There a Difference Between Sets and Groups in Tableau?
Continuing with the above example of Sets, select the Bottom Customers set where customer names are arranged based on profit.
Go to the ‘Groups’ tab and select the top five entries from the list.
Right-click and select create a group option.
184.What is a Parameter in Tableau? Give an Example.
Select the drop-down arrow on the top right corner of the Data pane.
Click on Create Parameter and fill in the details:
Name – Number of top/bottom customers
Select ‘Range’ for Allowable Values and fill the fields as:
Minimum – 5
Maximum – 20
Step – 5
185.What is the Difference Between Treemaps and Heat Maps?
Drag Region field to Columns shelf, and Category and Sub-Category fields in Rows shelf.
Use the ShowMe tool and select the Heat Map.
Observe the hotter and colder regions in the heat map produced:
186.What is the Rank Function in Tableau?
The ranking is assigning something a position usually within a category and based on a measure. Tableau can rank in several ways like:
rank
rank_dense
rank_modified
rank_unique
187.What Would You Do If Some Countries/Provinces (Any Geographical Entity) are Missing and Displaying a Null When You Use Map View?
Click the indicator and choose from the following options:
Edit Locations
– correct the locations by mapping your data to known locations
Filter Data –
exclude the unknown locations from the view using a filter. The locations will not be included in calculations
Show Data at Default Position –
show the values at the default position of (0, 0) on the map.
188.What is the Level of Detail (LOD) Expression?
Here, the scales are shown for a category like Furniture and its sub-categories (Chairs, Tables, etc.). To look at sales for the furniture category as a whole and not its sub-categories, remove the sub-category from the calculation field as shown:
189.How Do You Calculate the Daily Profit Measures Using LOD?
LOD expressions allow us to easily create bins on aggregated data such as profit per day.
Scenario: We want to measure our success by the total profit per business day.
Create a calculated field named LOD – Profit per day and enter the formula:
FIXED [Order Date] : SUM ([Profit])
Create another calculated field named LOD – Daily Profit KPI and enter the formula:
190.How Can You Schedule a Workbook in Tableau after Publishing It?
When you’re signed in to Tableau Server, go to Content > data sources or Content > Workbooks, depending on the type of content you want to refresh.
Select the checkbox for the data source or workbook you want to refresh, and then select Actions > Extract Refresh.
In the Refresh Extracts dialog, select Schedule a Refresh, and complete the following steps:
Select the schedule you want.
191.How Do You Handle Null and Other Special Values?
Filter Data
Excludes the null values from the visualization using a filter. In that case, the null values are also excluded from any calculations used in the view.
Show Data at Default Position
Shows the data at a default location on the axis.
192.Find the Customer with the Lowest Overall Profit. What is Their Profit Ratio?
Create a calculated field named Profit Ratio.
Right-click on Profit Ratio under Measures and select Edit.
Enter the formula: SUM (PROFIT) / SUM (SALES)
Next, drag the Profit Ratio to the Label to find out Cindy’s profit ratio
193.How Can You Embed a Webpage in a Dashboard?
Go to dashboard
Double click the ‘Webpage’ option available under ‘Objects.’
Enter the URL (here https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/) of the webpage in the dialog box that appears
You can see the webpage appears on the dashboard.
194.How Do You Make the Webpage Dynamic?
Go to the dashboard.
Double click the ‘Webpage’ option available under ‘Objects.’
Do not provide a URL in the dialog box that appears and click on Ok.
Click on the Dashboard in the menu and select ‘Action.’
Click on ‘Add Action’ and select ‘Go to URL.’
195.Design a View to Show Region Wise Profit and Sales.
Drag Profit and Sales field to the Rows shelf
Drag Region field to the Columns shelf
But for such Tableau interview questions, the interviewer may be looking for your mapping capabilities in Tableau. So, you need to follow these steps to show region wise profit and sales in a better way:
196.How Can You Optimize the Performance of a Dashboard?
Maximize the number of fields and records. You can exclude unused fields from your visualization or use extract filters.
Limit the number of filters used, by avoiding quick filters and using action and parameter filters instead. These filters reduce query loads.
use Min/Max instead of Average because average functions require more processing time than Min/Max
197.Which Visualization Will Be Used in the given Scenarios?
To show aggregated sales totals across a range of product categories and subcategories
To show the duration of events or activities
To show quarter wise profit growth
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