Data model best practices in Tableau - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the main goal of a good data model in Tableau?

To organize data efficiently so that reports and dashboards are fast, accurate, and easy to understand.

beginner

Why should you avoid using too many joins in your Tableau data model?

Because many joins can slow down performance and make the data harder to manage.

intermediate

What is a star schema and why is it recommended in Tableau?

A star schema organizes data with a central fact table connected to dimension tables. It simplifies analysis and improves performance.

beginner

How does using calculated fields in Tableau affect your data model?

Calculated fields let you create new data from existing data without changing the source, keeping your model clean and flexible.

beginner

What is the benefit of using data extracts instead of live connections in Tableau?

Data extracts improve speed and reduce load on the original data source by storing a snapshot of the data locally.

Which schema is best for organizing data in Tableau for better performance?

A Flat file

B Star schema

C Snowflake schema

D Normalized schema

Star schema is recommended because it simplifies relationships and improves query speed.

What happens if you use too many joins in your Tableau data model?

A Slows down performance

B No effect on performance

C Improves performance

D Automatically optimizes queries

Too many joins can slow down performance and make the model complex.

Why use data extracts instead of live connections in Tableau?

A To avoid data refresh

B To slow down dashboards

C To always have real-time data

D To reduce load on data sources and improve speed

Extracts store data locally, improving speed and reducing load on the original source.

What is a calculated field in Tableau?

A A new data source

B A filter on data

C A way to create new data from existing data

D A type of join

Calculated fields create new values based on existing data without changing the source.

Which practice helps keep Tableau data models simple and fast?

A Using star schema and limiting joins

B Using many nested joins

C Using only live connections

D Avoiding calculated fields

Star schema and limiting joins simplify the model and improve performance.

Explain why a star schema is preferred in Tableau data modeling and how it affects dashboard performance.

Think about how organizing data in a simple shape helps Tableau work faster.

Describe the advantages and disadvantages of using live connections versus data extracts in Tableau.

Consider when you want real-time data versus faster dashboards.