Why use the CALCULATE function on Power BI measures?

[Anonymous]

When I create measures on Power BI, I usually just go straight to the function I want to create. And that usually works. 

However, I often see other people using the CALCULATE function before the actual functions. I wonder why is that? 

EXAMPLE:

If I need to sum the numbers within a table, I might just create a new measure like this:
TotalSales = SUM('table'[column])

However, I often see people doing this, to achieve the same result:

TotalSales = CALCULATE(SUM('table'[column]))

So, what is exactly the advantage in putting CALCULATE in front of the measures, even when there doesn't seem to be an obvious need to it? 

Thanks  🙂 

[v-xiaotang · Accepted solution]

Hi @Anonymous 

Thanks for reaching out to us.

please refer to 

Power BI Tips - DAX Calculate Function (databear.com)

Context Transition and Filters in CALCULATE - SQLBI

CALCULATE function (DAX) - DAX | Microsoft Learn

Best Regards,

Community Support Team _Tang

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

[amitchandak]

@Anonymous , calculate is needed when you want to add filters.

example

calculate(Sum(Table[Value]), item[Brand] ="ABC")

refer

https://community.powerbi.com/t5/Community-Blog/The-CALCULATE-Function-In-Power-BI-DAX-Tutorial/ba-p/1944173

https://www.phdata.io/blog/the-calculate-function-in-power-bi/