How to Use Conditional Formatting in Power BI (Background Colour Guide)
Table of Contents
Introduction
Data visualization is an important aspect to ensure reports are easily comprehended and are useful. Conditional Formatting is a feature in Power BI that helps to highlight key data points in reports. By applying formatting rules to an entire column, you can save time while improving report readability and effectiveness.
We have already discussed conditional formatting in one of our blogs. For more details, explore our article on Conditional Formatting in Power BI using Data Bars and Icons.
In this blog, you will learn how to apply and remove Conditional Formatting using the Background Colour option in a Table visual.
Why is Conditional Formatting Needed
Conditional Formatting allows you to make certain information more prominent. By using conditional formatting, you can visualize data in a way that makes the data values more distinguishable. Conditional Formatting saves time and resources by applying formatting rules to the entire column, row, or field.
You can download the Power BI file using the link provided below the blog and practice this step by step.
To Get Started:
- Click on the Table Visual in the Visualizations Pane.
- Drag and drop the Product from Products Table to the Columns.
- Drag and drop the COGS CM from All Measures New Table to the Columns.
- Drag and drop the Revenue CM from All Measures New Table to the Columns.
- Drag and drop the Profit CM from All Measures New Table to the Columns.
Conditional Formatting by Background Colour
Background Colour is one way to visually categorize your data.
To use Conditional Formatting by Background Colour:
6. In the Values area, click on the arrow at the right of COGS CM.
7. Click on Conditional Formatting.
8. Click on Background Colour.
A pop-up menu appears.
9. Select the check box at the left of Add a middle colour.
10. Click OK.
Removing Background Colour Formatting
To Remove Background Colour Formatting:
11. Click on COGS CM.
12. Click on Remove Conditional Formatting.
13. Click on Background Colour.
Notice that all options except background colour are greyed because they are not yet applied.
Conclusion
Conditional Formatting is a simple yet powerful feature in Power BI that enhances report clarity and usability. By applying background colour formatting, you can quickly highlight performance trends and make your reports more interactive and visually meaningful. Mastering this feature will significantly improve how stakeholders interpret your data.
FAQs
Conditional Formatting is a feature in Power BI that formats data based on the data value.
Background Colour formatting can be useful in making low, medium, and high values stand out.
The options that are greyed out indicate that these types of formatting have not been applied.
Extended Learning & References
For more in-depth learning and advanced Power BI training, enrol in
- Microsoft 365 Copilot Training Courses – Practical Learning for Modern Work
- Power BI Advanced Training Course.
- Power BI Report Design
- Power BI Essentials
- Power BI DAX Essentials
- Power BI Service Course
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