Explain the Number Function ' ABS ' in Tableau with Example?

In Tableau, the ABS function is a number function that returns the absolute value of a given number. The absolute value represents the magnitude of a number without considering its sign (+ or -). The ABS function ensures that the result is always a positive value or zero.

The syntax for the ABS function in Tableau is as follows:

ABS(number)

• number is the numeric value for which you want to calculate the absolute value.

Here's an example to illustrate the usage of the ABS function in Tableau:

Let's consider a dataset with a column called "Sales" that contains different sales values, including positive and negative numbers.

Sales
100
-50
200
-150

To calculate the absolute values of the "Sales" column using the ABS function, you can create a calculated field in Tableau:

1. Right-click on a blank area in the "Data" pane in Tableau.
2. Select "Create Calculated Field."
3. In the formula editor, enter the following expression:

ABS([Sales])

4. Click "OK" to create the calculated field.

The calculated field, which utilizes the ABS function, will calculate the absolute value for each value in the "Sales" column.

The resulting dataset will be as follows:

Sales	Absolute Sales
100	100
-50	50
200	200
-150	150

In this example, the ABS function calculates the absolute value of each sales value, disregarding the positive or negative sign. For instance, the absolute value of -50 is 50, and the absolute value of -150 is 150.

By utilizing the ABS function, you can ensure that you are working with the magnitude of numbers and remove any potential negative values, allowing for consistent calculations and analysis of numerical data in Tableau.