Symbol maps in Tableau - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a Symbol Map in Tableau?

A Symbol Map in Tableau is a type of map visualization that uses symbols (like circles or shapes) to represent data points on a geographic map. The size or color of the symbols can show different values.

beginner

How do you change the size of symbols on a Symbol Map in Tableau?

You drag a measure (numeric field) to the Size shelf. This changes the symbol size based on the values of that measure, making it easy to compare data points visually.

intermediate

Why use Symbol Maps instead of filled maps?

Symbol Maps are better when you want to show exact locations or compare values at specific points. Filled maps color entire areas, which can hide details about individual points.

beginner

What geographic data types can Tableau use for Symbol Maps?

Tableau can use fields like Country, State, City, Postal Code, or Latitude and Longitude coordinates to place symbols accurately on the map.

beginner

How can color be used in Symbol Maps?

Color can be added by dragging a dimension or measure to the Color shelf. This helps show categories or value ranges, making the map easier to understand at a glance.

What does the size of symbols in a Tableau Symbol Map usually represent?

A The date of data entry

B A geographic region

C A text label

D A numeric measure value

Symbol size in Tableau maps is controlled by numeric measures to show differences in values.

Which shelf do you use to add color to symbols on a Symbol Map?

A Size shelf

B Color shelf

C Label shelf

D Detail shelf

The Color shelf controls the color of symbols, helping to categorize or highlight data.

What geographic data can Tableau use to place symbols on a Symbol Map?

A Latitude and Longitude

B Product names

C Customer IDs

D Sales amounts

Latitude and Longitude are geographic coordinates used to place symbols accurately on maps.

Why might you choose a Symbol Map over a Filled Map?

A To color entire regions uniformly

B To display only text labels

C To show exact locations and compare values at points

D To create bar charts

Symbol Maps highlight specific points and their values, unlike Filled Maps which color whole areas.

What happens if you drag a dimension to the Detail shelf in a Symbol Map?

A It adds more symbols for each category

B It changes symbol size

C It changes symbol color

D It removes symbols

Adding a dimension to Detail creates separate symbols for each category or value.

Explain how you create a Symbol Map in Tableau and customize it to show different data values.

Think about how size and color help tell a story on the map.

Describe when it is better to use a Symbol Map instead of a Filled Map in Tableau.

Consider the difference between points and areas on a map.