1. What is a Calculated Field in Pivot Tables?

A calculated field in a pivot table allows you to create new data from existing fields by applying formulas. It appears as a new field in your pivot table that you can use like any other field.

2. How to Create a Calculated Field

The basic syntax for a calculated field is:

Where:

• FieldName — The name for your new calculated field
• Field1, Field2 — Existing fields in your pivot table
• operator — Mathematical operator (+, -, *, /) or function

3. Common Formula Examples

Examples:

• Profit = Sales - Cost
• Margin = (Sales - Cost)/Sales
• Percentage = Field1/Total
• Weighted Average = (Value1*Weight1 + Value2*Weight2)/(Weight1+Weight2)

4. Best Practices

Tips:

• Use descriptive names for your calculated fields
• Check your formulas for circular references
• Format the results appropriately (percentages, currency, etc.)
• Test your formulas with known values to verify accuracy

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use Excel functions in calculated fields?
A: Yes, but only certain functions are available (SUM, AVERAGE, IF, etc.). Array functions won't work.

Q2: Why is my calculated field showing incorrect values?
A: This often happens when the formula uses totals instead of individual records. Check if you need to use GETPIVOTDATA.

Q3: Can I reference other calculated fields?
A: Yes, but be careful of circular references where FieldA depends on FieldB which depends on FieldA.

Q4: How do I edit or delete a calculated field?
A: Go to PivotTable Analyze > Fields, Items & Sets > Calculated Field to manage your fields.

Q5: Are calculated fields available in all Excel versions?
A: Yes, this feature has been available in all modern versions of Excel.