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Do you want to take your data analysis in Looker Studio to the next level by incorporating conditional logic? The CASE WHEN function is a versatile tool that allows you to apply logic and manipulate data based on various conditions.

In this tutorial, I’ll guide you through the usage of the CASE WHEN function in Looker Studio, equipping you with the knowledge to perform advanced calculations and enhance your data insights.

 

Header Outline:
I. Introduction
II. Understanding the CASE WHEN Function
A. Purpose and Benefits
B. Syntax of the CASE WHEN Function
III. Implementing the CASE WHEN Function in Looker Studio
A. Accessing Looker Studio
B. Opening the Report
C. Adding a Calculated Field
D. Writing the CASE WHEN Expression
IV. Examples of Using the CASE WHEN Function
A. Example 1: Categorising Sales Performance
B. Example 2: Creating a Custom Segment
V. Best Practices for Utilising the CASE WHEN Function
VI. Conclusion

I. Introduction

The CASE WHEN function in Looker Studio is a powerful tool that allows you to apply conditional logic and create custom calculations based on specific criteria. By using the CASE WHEN function, you can manipulate and transform your data to provide meaningful insights.

In this guide, we will explore how to use the CASE WHEN function in Looker Studio, providing step-by-step instructions, examples, and best practices to help you leverage this versatile function effectively.

II. Understanding the CASE WHEN Function

A. Purpose and Benefits

The CASE WHEN function in Looker Studio enables you to perform conditional evaluations and return different values based on specified conditions. It helps you categorise data, create custom segments, and generate calculated fields, adding flexibility and complexity to your data visualisations.

B. Syntax of the CASE WHEN Function

The basic syntax of the CASE WHEN function is as follows:

CASE
WHEN condition1 THEN result1
WHEN condition2 THEN result2

ELSE result
END

The function evaluates conditions in the specified order and returns the corresponding result when a condition is met. If none of the conditions are met, the function returns the result specified after the ELSE keyword.

III. Implementing the CASE WHEN Function in Looker Studio

To use the CASE WHEN function in Looker Studio, follow these steps:

A. Accessing Looker Studio

  1. Sign in to your Looker Studio account.
  2. Open the report where you want to add a calculated field using the CASE WHEN function.

B. Opening the Report

  1. Navigate to the report editor by clicking on the “Edit” button for the desired report.
  2. Ensure you have edit access to the report.

C. Adding a Calculated Field

  1. In the report editor, select the data source to which you want to add the calculated field.
  2. Click on the “Add a Field” button in the toolbar.
  3. Give the field a name and select the data type that matches the expected result.

D. Writing the CASE WHEN Expression

  1. In the formula field, write the CASE WHEN expression using the appropriate syntax.
  2. Replace the conditions, results, and the ELSE result with your specific logic and values.
  3. Test the expression using the “Preview Results” feature to ensure it produces the desired outcome.
  4. Save the calculated field.

IV. Examples of Using the CASE WHEN Function

Here are two examples to illustrate the application of the CASE WHEN function in Looker Studio:

A. Example 1: Categorising Sales Performance

Suppose you have a “Revenue” field and want to categorise the sales performance as “High,” “Medium,” or “Low” based on specific revenue thresholds. You can use the CASE WHEN function as follows:

CASE
WHEN Revenue >= 100000 THEN ‘High’
WHEN Revenue >= 50000 THEN ‘Medium’
ELSE ‘Low’
END

B. Example 2: Creating a Custom Segment

Assume you have a “Country” field and want to create a custom segment called “Top Countries” that includes specific countries. You can use the CASE WHEN function as follows:

CASE
WHEN Country IN (‘USA’, ‘UK’, ‘Canada’) THEN ‘Top Countries’
ELSE ‘Other Countries’
END

V. Best Practices for Utilising the CASE WHEN Function

Consider the following best practices when using the CASE WHEN function in Looker Studio:

  • Ensure proper syntax and logical order when writing the CASE WHEN expression.
  • Use clear and descriptive names for your calculated fields to enhance readability.
  • Test your expressions thoroughly to validate the expected results.

VI. Conclusion

By following the steps outlined in this guide and considering the provided examples and best practices, you can effectively use the CASE WHEN function in Looker Studio. Leveraging the power of conditional logic and custom calculations enhances the depth and insights of your data visualisations.

Experiment with different conditions and results to uncover meaningful patterns and trends in your data, making your reports more informative and actionable.

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