how to create calculated fields in google sheets using query
IN SUMMARY
The QUERY function in Google Sheets allows you to create calculated fields by performing arithmetic operations on existing columns within the query itself. This powerful feature enables you to derive new data and insights from your existing dataset.
Selecting Columns and Performing Calculations
In your QUERY function, specify the columns you want to include by listing their column letters separated by commas. For example, 'SELECT A, B, C, D' will select columns A, B, C, and D.
After listing the desired columns, add a comma and then specify the calculation you want to perform on an existing column. For instance, to calculate 16% VAT on the sales column (column D), you would write ', D * 0.16'. This will create a new column with the calculated VAT values.
You can further combine the calculated column with existing data by adding another comma and specifying the desired operation. For example, ', D + (D * 0.16)' will create a new column with the sum of the sales and the calculated VAT.
Labeling Calculated Columns
To provide a more descriptive name for your calculated columns, use the LABEL clause within your QUERY function. For example, 'LABEL D * 0.16 'VAT', D + (D * 0.16) 'Total' will label the calculated columns as 'VAT' and 'Total', respectively.
Labeling your calculated columns makes your data more readable and easier to understand, especially when working with complex calculations or sharing your spreadsheet with others.
When labeling calculated columns, it's a good practice to use names that are consistent with the existing column names in your data source. This helps maintain a cohesive and organized structure within your spreadsheet.
Filtering and Limiting Results
You can filter your query results based on the values in your calculated columns by using the WHERE clause. For example, 'WHERE D > 10000' will only return rows where the value in column D (sales) is greater than 10,000.
Use the LIMIT clause to specify the maximum number of rows you want to include in your query results. For instance, 'LIMIT 10' will return only the top 10 rows based on the order of your data.
You can combine filtering and limiting to get the most relevant subset of your data. For example, 'WHERE D > 10000 LIMIT 10' will return the top 10 rows where the value in column D (sales) is greater than 10,000.