Moving average in Tableau - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a moving average in data visualization?

A moving average smooths data by calculating the average of a set number of data points over time. It helps show trends by reducing short-term fluctuations.

beginner

How do you create a moving average in Tableau?

You use a table calculation called WINDOW_AVG() over a measure, specifying the range of data points to average, like the last 3 months.

beginner

Why use a moving average instead of raw data points?

Because it reduces noise and shows clearer trends, making it easier to understand overall patterns in data.

intermediate

What does WINDOW_AVG(SUM([Sales]), -2, 0) mean in Tableau?

It calculates the average of the current and previous two data points of the SUM of Sales, creating a 3-point moving average.

intermediate

What is the difference between a simple moving average and a weighted moving average?

A simple moving average gives equal weight to all points, while a weighted moving average gives more importance to recent points.

What is the main purpose of a moving average in a dashboard?

A To filter out all data except the latest

B To highlight short-term spikes

C To count the number of data points

D To smooth data and show trends

A moving average smooths data to reveal trends by reducing short-term fluctuations.

Which Tableau function is commonly used to calculate a moving average?

A WINDOW_AVG()

B LOOKUP()

C IF()

D SUM()

WINDOW_AVG() calculates the average over a window of data points, perfect for moving averages.

In a 3-point moving average, how many data points are averaged?

A 1

B 2

C 3

D 4

A 3-point moving average averages three data points at a time.

What does the '-2' mean in WINDOW_AVG(SUM([Sales]), -2, 0)?

A Start averaging two points after current

B Start averaging two points before current

C Ignore two points

D Average only current point

The '-2' means the window starts two points before the current point.

Which moving average type gives more importance to recent data?

A Weighted moving average

B Simple moving average

C Cumulative average

D Median average

Weighted moving averages assign more weight to recent data points.

Explain how a moving average helps in understanding sales trends over time.

Think about how averaging helps see the big picture beyond daily ups and downs.

Describe the steps to create a 3-point moving average in Tableau using WINDOW_AVG.

Focus on the function and the window range parameters.