What is the key column function in model view?

[selimovd]

Hello,

I recently discovered the "key column" functionality in the model view:

I tried to understand the impact, but I didn't realize any impact on my data model.

Does anyone know what this is good for and how I can use this column?

Thank you and best regards

[parry2k]

@selimovd, similar to what @DavidPROVOST  said, here is something about how this key column helps  Tuning Power BI Copilot with Row Labels and Key Columns

[DavidPROVOST]

I had the opposite behaviour : My table has 2 columns : Key, Label. Only Label may have duplicates. When I display Label in a table, it shows 1 row (expected). As soon as I define "Key" as the key, it shows every duplicates.

[amitchandak]

@selimovd , I think kind of Primary Key/Unique Key in database

[selimovd]

I think kind of the same. But when I use it or not I don't see a difference. That's why I ask if someone know what this is specifically for?

[amitchandak]

@selimovd , Only diff you will see that the icon for the key column will change. If it is date Date Hierarchy and related stuff will not work.

[selimovd]

So the only effect is that the logo changes to identify the key column?

[Chino]

I had the same question. Yet I experienced difference once. I merged 2 tables and afte the merge found duplicates I didnt expect. After defining the key column the duplicates were gone. So it does do something, and I took it as a reason to use it.