Mastering Data Transformation- Techniques for Changing Pivot Table Source Data
How to Change Pivot Table Source Data: A Comprehensive Guide
Pivot tables are a powerful tool in Excel that allow users to summarize and analyze large datasets. However, there may be times when you need to change the source data for your pivot table. This could be due to various reasons, such as updating the data or restructuring the source file. In this article, we will discuss the steps to change pivot table source data, ensuring that your pivot table remains accurate and up-to-date.
Understanding Pivot Table Source Data
Before we dive into the steps to change pivot table source data, it is essential to understand what constitutes the source data for a pivot table. The source data for a pivot table is the range of cells that contains the data you want to analyze. This can be a single table, multiple tables, or even a combination of tables and external data sources.
Step 1: Open the Pivot Table
To change the source data for a pivot table, you first need to open the pivot table itself. You can do this by clicking on the pivot table you want to modify. Once the pivot table is open, you will see a field list on the right side of the Excel window.
Step 2: Modify the Source Data Range
To change the source data range, you need to modify the field list. First, click on the “Options” button in the field list. This will open the “PivotTable Options” dialog box. In this dialog box, go to the “Data” tab.
Here, you will find the “Change Data Source” button. Clicking on this button will open the “New Source Data” dialog box. In this dialog box, you can select a new range of cells to use as the source data for your pivot table. You can either enter the range manually or click on the “Select a range” button to choose the range from your worksheet.
Step 3: Adjust the Field List
After you have changed the source data range, you may need to adjust the field list to reflect the new data. This may involve adding or removing fields, changing the order of the fields, or even reorganizing the entire field list. To do this, simply drag and drop the fields from the field list onto the pivot table.
Step 4: Refresh the Pivot Table
Once you have made the necessary changes to the source data and field list, it is crucial to refresh the pivot table to ensure that it reflects the updated data. To do this, right-click on the pivot table and select “Refresh.”
Step 5: Save Your Changes
After refreshing the pivot table, make sure to save your changes. This will ensure that your pivot table remains accurate and up-to-date with the new source data.
Conclusion
Changing pivot table source data is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your pivot table remains accurate and up-to-date with your data. Whether you are updating the data or restructuring the source file, the process remains the same. With a little practice, you will be able to change pivot table source data with ease.