Let us start the week with a simple formula (well, to be fair, let us start the week with a strong cup of coffee, then this formula).
Often when we have large data sets, we apply data filters to select and display only information we want to see.
Some of you know that whenever we apply filters on a dataset, we can look at status bar area to find out if any filter is applied on the current worksheet. It looks like this when filters are applied:
But, what if you need a way to show “filtering” status thru formulas?
Well, you can do that very easily by using two simple formulas called as COUNTA() and SUBTOTAL().
Here is how it works:
And the formula is, (assuming we want to test the range B4:B3000)
=IF(COUNTA(B4:B3000)>SUBTOTAL(3,B4:B3000), "list filtered ["&SUBTOTAL(3,B4:B3000)&" items]","Not filtered")
How does the formula work?
- We are asking excel to findout how many values are there in the range B4:B3000 using COUNTA() formula.
- Then we are asking excel to tell how many values are there after filter in the same range using SUBTOTAL() formula [introduction to excel SUBTOTAL formula].
- Now, if the first value is more than second, we knew that the list is filtered. So we are showing a message like,
- “List Filtered [x items]”.
What would you use this type of formula for?
I have used this type of formula in charts, dashboards where I need to tell whether source data is filtered or complete. What about you? Where would you use this type of formula?
9 Responses to “CP044: My first dashboard was a failure!!!”
CONGRATS on the book!
Thanks for this podcast. It's great to hear about your disaster and recovery. It's a reminder that we're all human. None of this skill came easily.
Thank you Oz. I believe that we learn most by analyzing our mistakes.
Hey chandoo
this really a good lesson learned
but as I have already stated in one of my previous email that it would be more helpful for us if you could release videos of your classes for us
thanks
The article gave me motivation, especially you describing the terrible disaster that you faced but how to get back from the setbacks. Thanks for that, but with video this will be more fun.
Hi Nafi,
Thanks for your comments. Please note that this is (and will be) audio podcast. For videos, I suggest subscribing to our YouTube channel. No point listening to audio and saying its not video.
You always motivate me with respect of the tools in excel. How we can really exploit it to the fullest. Thanks very much
Thank you Amankwah... 🙂
Thank you very much, Chandoo, for your excellent lessons, I am anxious to learn so valuable tips and tricks from you, keep up the great job!
I truly appreciate the transcripts of the podcasts, because as a speaker of English as a second language, it allows me to fully understand the material. It'd be great if you can add transcripts to your online courses too, I am sure people will welcome this feature.
Dashboards for Excel has arrived in Laguna Beach, CA! Thanks!
Now I need to make time to "learn and inwardly digest" its contents as one of my high school teachers would admonish us!