Skip to main content
cancel
Showing results for 
Search instead for 
Did you mean: 

Compete to become Power BI Data Viz World Champion! First round ends August 18th. Get started.

Reply
selimovd
Super User
Super User

What is the key column function in model view?

Hello,

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

KeyColumn.png

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

5 REPLIES 5
amitchandak
Super User
Super User

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

Share with Power BI Enthusiasts: Full Power BI Video (20 Hours) YouTube
Microsoft Fabric Series 60+ Videos YouTube
Microsoft Fabric Hindi End to End YouTube

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?

@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.

Share with Power BI Enthusiasts: Full Power BI Video (20 Hours) YouTube
Microsoft Fabric Series 60+ Videos YouTube
Microsoft Fabric Hindi End to End YouTube

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

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.

Helpful resources

Announcements
August Power BI Update Carousel

Power BI Monthly Update - August 2025

Check out the August 2025 Power BI update to learn about new features.

August 2025 community update carousel

Fabric Community Update - August 2025

Find out what's new and trending in the Fabric community.

Top Solution Authors