Convert excel matrix table to flattened table

[powerbi-learner]

The Excel tables that I receive for import into Power BI always have data arranged as a matrix.

Where is a good place that I can learn how to convert a matrix into a flattened table?

I've found this very difficult to learn.

Transpose, Pivot, Unpivot just seem to mess up the arrangement that I'm seeking ie one column per common variable.

Here's an example of the type of data that I receive:

Columns C to H have subcategories.

I have an active question about how to convert this to a flattened table if you wish to contribute.

[Mohammada]

Hi,

I have a similar query with the data but wanted to automate the process as I receive daily data which needs to be updated. How can I query this?

and wanted to transform it into the following way:

[Ashish_Mathur]

Hi,

Your input data is in very bad shape.  It may take a lot of effort to get it in your desired format.  It may not be an easy task.

[Ashish_Mathur · Accepted solution]

Hi,

Instead of having 2 rows for every column, have just one.  So row 2 should have Year, DHB, Maori - Enrolled, Maori - Populaiton etc.  Once that is done, take the data to the Query Editor, right click on the first 2 columns and select Unpivot other columns.  You may then split the attribute column by the - delimiter.

Hope this helps.

[powerbi-learner]

@Ashish_Mathur You Sir, are a legend!!! OMG your solution worked! Thank you soooooooooo much!

You’re a Power BI Expert!!! Best wishes!

[Ashish_Mathur]

You are most welcome.  I am just a learner like you.  If my reply helped, please mark it as Answer.

[parry2k]

In edit query, select first two columns and then right click and then "unpivot other columns"

you will get attribute and value, attribute will be your category c to h and value.

[powerbi-learner]

Thanks for your reply @parry2k

When I pasted the image above I'd left out row 1. I've now pasted the correct image.

Note that rows C-D, E-F, and G-H are categories, and nested below those population groups are the variables Enrolled, Population.

So I'd like to end up with a flattened table that has the columns:

Year - DHB - Group - Enrolled - Population

Group would be the columns I mentioned above ie Maori, Pacific, Other.

Any advice on how I'd go about this?