Issue with Column Loading and DAX Functionality in Power BI Desktop

[Brianduberth]

I am experiencing a recurring issue in Power BI Desktop related to loading and using columns from an Excel table. The specific problems are as follows:

Table Loading:

I have an Excel table that loads correctly into Power BI, but when trying to use it in the modeling area, the columns are not visible or recognized in the DAX Editor.

This issue persists even after reloading the table without making any prior modifications in Power Query Editor.

Issues with DAX Formulas:

When attempting to create calculated measures or columns using DAX functions like SWITCH, the table columns do not appear as selectable options when typing the formula.

Other functions, such as IF, are also not recognized in certain instances, suggesting there might be a problem with either the version of Power BI or the DAX Editor configuration.

Troubleshooting Steps Taken:

I have tried loading different files into a new Power BI report, but the issue persists: columns do not appear in DAX formulas.

I have reviewed language settings, format settings, and cleared the cache, ensuring that auto-complete and syntax suggestions are enabled.

Impact:

I am unable to categorize or analyze the data properly due to the inability to use the columns in DAX formulas.

This affects the creation of indicators and data categorization based on specific values

I have attached screenshots to illustrate the issue. When I use the formula AVERAGE, the table Consolidado and its column MICROREs are recognized correctly within the formula editor. The column name appears within brackets, and the formula works as expected.

However, when I attempt to use the SWITCH function, the same table and column are not recognized. The column names do not appear as suggestions within the DAX editor, and I cannot complete the formula correctly because the editor does not recognize the column references.

This inconsistency in recognizing columns depending on the DAX function used suggests there may be an issue with how Power BI is handling column visibility or recognition in certain contexts.

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[Anonymous · Accepted solution]

Hi @Brianduberth ,

In Powerbi, different functions have their own different usage, just like the AVERAGE function and the SWITCH function mentioned in your example, they also have their own different usage.

I also create a table, a calculated column and a measure.

Column = SUM('Table'[SalesAmount])

Acount = SUM('Table'[SalesAmount])

So if you want to pop up the prompt directly you can choose Measure.

If you want to use data from Calculated column or Table, since it is in Measure, you need to use SUM function or MAX function.

So finally you can get what you want if you follow my steps.

Best Regards

Yilong Zhou

If this post helps, then please consider Accept it as the solution to help the other members find it more quickly.

[lbendlin]

Looks like you created a lot of calculated columns?  Can you create these in Power Query instead?