Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula

What is Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula?

A Pivot Table Calculated Field is a powerful function in data analysis that helps derive new variables from existing fields within a pivot table. This feature enables users to perform calculations on numbers, such as summing or averaging values, creating ratios or percentages, or even calculating monthly growth rates. Using formulas within a calculated field allows professionals to manipulate and analyze data more efficiently without altering the source data.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula
Key Takeaways
  • Pivot Table Calculated Fields are essential for professionals working with vast amounts of data who need deeper insights and to uncover patterns or trends.
  • The fields can be refined by modifying their format settings or adding number formatting options to enhance readability. 
  • The flexibility in customizing our pivot table’s appearance while preserving important data insights derived from calculated fields.
  • The key uses of pivot tables are to compare, evaluate, and analyze data from different perspectives. They offer the ability to rearrange quickly, group, and sort data based on variables such as date, category, or region. 

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula Explained

  • The Pivot Table Calculated Field and Formula feature is a powerful tool that allows users to perform complex calculations within a pivot table in Excel.
  • With the Pivot Table feature, one can create new calculated fields by combining the existing data fields and applying custom formulas.
  • Pivot Table enhances the analytical capabilities of a pivot table and saves time as it eliminates the need to manipulate data outside the pivot table.
  • By utilizing functions like SUM, AVERAGE, COUNT, etc., and operators such as +, -, *, /, and logical operators like IF, one can perform various calculations like weighted averages, percentage changes, year-on-year growth rates, etc.

Below are examples of how to use the PivotTable calculated field and insert formulas on other Pivot fields. Consider the following data in an Excel worksheet.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula

Step 1: Select the data range A1:C5 in our Pivot Table.

Step 2: Proceed to the Excel ribbon and click the Insert tab. From there, opt for the Pivot Table insertion option.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula step 2

Step 3: Determine the location of the Pivot table within the Pivot Table or range window.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula step 3

Step 4: Choose the desired fields, such as Scores of Maths, Scores of English, and Scores of Science, and position them in the COLUMNS section of the Pivot Table.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula step 4

Step 5: Our Pivot Table is primed for utilization once these steps have been completed.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula step 5

How To Add/Edit?

Below are examples of how to use the PivotTable calculated field and insert formulas on other Pivot fields.

Step 1: Select the data we want to use in our Pivot Table. Navigate to the ribbon and click the “Insert” tab. From there, choose the option to insert a Pivot Table.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula -How To Add Edit Step 1

Step 2: Set the location of the Pivot table in the Pivot Table table or range window.

How To Add Edit Step 2

Step 3: Select the checkbox desired fields, such as A, B, C, and D, and place them in the “COLUMNS” section of the Pivot Table.

How To Add Edit Step 3

Once we have completed these steps, our Pivot Table is ready to be used.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula -How To Add Edit Step 3

Step 4: After inserting the PivotTable, go to the “Analyze” tab, which will only be visible if the PivotTable is selected.

Step 5: Select the “Fields, Items Sets” option and choose the “Calculated Field” for our Pivot Table.

How To Add Edit Step 5

Step 6: In the “Insert Calculated Field” option within the Pivot Table, input the necessary formula for our specific case.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula -How To Add Edit Step 6

Step 7: The formula to calculate the desired field is successfully created.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula -How To Add Edit Step 7

How To Switching off the “GetPivot” table Function?

A systematic approach to switching off the “GetPivot” table function is essential.

Switching off the GetPivot table Function
  • Under the “PivotTable Analyze” tab, go to the “Pivot Table” group. Navigate to the “Options” tab on the Excel ribbon and choose “PivotTable Options.”
PivotTable Options
  • Click the “Options” drop-down here.
Pivot Table Options - Options” drop-down
  • Uncheck the “Generate GETPIVOTDATA” option by clicking on it.
  • By turning off this functionality, Excel no longer automatically generates formulas referencing specific pivot table aspects, such as a specific value or field name, using GETPIVOTDATA.
Switching off the “GetPivot” table Function -Output

Below is an example of the PivotTable by switching off the “GetPivot” calculated field and inserting formulas on other Pivot fields.

inserting formulas on other Pivot fields

Step 1: Select the data range A1:B4 in our Pivot Table.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula-inserting formulas on other Pivot fields Step 1

Next, navigate to the ribbon and locate the Insert tab. From there, choose the option to insert a Pivot Table.

Insert pivot table

Step 2: Proceed to set the location of the Pivot table in the Pivot Table table or range window.

inserting formulas on other Pivot fields Step 2

Step 3: Now, select the desired fields, such as X and Y, and place them in the ROWS section of the Pivot Table.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula-inserting formulas on other Pivot fields Step 3

Step 4: Once we have completed these steps, our Pivot Table is ready to be utilized.

Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula-inserting formulas on other Pivot fields Step 4

Important Things To Note

  • Pivot tables are particularly beneficial for professionals who deal with complex datasets regularly, such as financial analysts, market researchers, or project managers.
  • By utilizing pivot tables effectively, professionals can uncover patterns and trends hidden within raw data, enabling them to make informed decisions and drive successful outcomes in their respective fields.
  • The versatile Pivot Table feature provides professionals the flexibility and efficiency required for advanced data analysis and reporting within Microsoft Excel’s spreadsheet environment.
  • The Pivot table will provide more control and flexibility when working with tables, allowing users to use standard Excel formulas when analyzing data within these tables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are there any limitations or restrictions when creating calculated fields in pivot tables?

Certain limitations and restrictions must be considered when creating calculated fields in pivot tables.
• Firstly, it is essential to note that only numeric fields can be used in the calculations. Text or date fields cannot be used directly.
• Pivot tables do not support complex formulas or functions like nested IF statements or VLOOKUPs. The calculations are limited to simple arithmetic operations.
• Furthermore, calculated fields cannot refer to other calculated fields within the same pivot table.
• Finally, calculated fields also inherit all filtration rules applied to the pivot table.

2. Can I hide or remove a calculated field from my pivot table without deleting it entirely?

It is possible to hide or remove a calculated field from a pivot table without deleting it entirely. To hide a calculated field, follow these steps.
• Right-click the pivot table’s field header and select “Field Settings.”
• Click the “Lawet & Print” tab in the Field Settings dialog box and uncheck the “Show item labels in outline form” option. It will effectively hide the calculated field from being displayed in the pivot table while retaining its functionality.
• Alternatively, to remove a calculated field without deleting it, go to the “Active Field” dropdown menu within the Field Settings dialog box and select “Remove.”
• It will detach the calculated field from the pivot table, removing any traces of its presence without affecting other fields or calculations within the pivot table.

3. What are the benefits of creating calculated fields in pivot tables?

Creating calculated fields in pivot tables can provide several benefits for professionals.
• It allows for customization and flexibility in data analysis by enabling the creation of new formulas based on existing fields. It is particularly useful when working with large datasets that require complex calculations. 
• Calculated fields enable data aggregation in unique ways by performing mathematical operations, such as ratios, averages, or percentages. It allows professionals to make informed decisions based on a deeper understanding of the underlying patterns and trends. 
• Calculated fields can save time and effort as they automatically update whenever source data changes. 

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This article must help understand Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula formulas and examples. We can download the template here to use it instantly.

Guide to Pivot Table Calculated Field & Formula. Here we learn how to add/edit with step by step examples and a downloadable template. You can learn more from the following articles –

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