Table Calculation in Tableau allows you to calculate the data that has been aggregated within your visualizations.
Table calculations can be applied to the entire table or specific measures. One common use for table calculations is calculating running totals or moving averages.
It is important to note that table calculations are affected by layout, direction, scope, and filters, such as the measure filter shown in the picture above.
Table calculations offer a convenient way to perform more advanced calculations without having to create a new calculation field.
For example, we can use a table calculation to find the running total of sales for each region using the Sample-Superstore dataset.
Step 1
Right-click & hold the Order Date on the Columns shelf and select Month Continuous.
Drag the Sales to the Rows shelf.
Drag the Region to the colour in the Marks.
Step 2
Right-click on the Sales field in the Rows (or click on the arrow), and select “Quick Table Calculation” and then “Running Total”.
This will show the running total of sales for each region. We can also customize the table calculation by right-clicking on the Sales field in the Rows shelf and selecting “Edit Table Calculation”. This will open a dialogue box where you can specify the calculation type, direction, and other options.