Improve Power Query UI: Move Query Settings Pane & Expand Workspace for Better Data Visibility
Feature Request: Two UI enhancements to improve readability and workspace in Power Query
While working with medium to large datasets in Power Query, the available screen space becomes very limited, especially when dealing with many columns. I would like to propose two UI improvements that will give users more control and make data transformation easier and more comfortable.
1. Option to Move/Shift the Query Settings Pane to the Left Side (or Dock Anywhere)
The Query Settings pane currently appears fixed on the right side.
When working on smaller screens or with wide tables, the right-side pane occupies valuable horizontal space.
Suggested Enhancement:
Allow users to dock the Query Settings pane on the left side, similar to how the Queries pane is docked.
Even better, allow a drag-and-drop, customizable docking system (left, right, bottom, or floating window).
This will help users who prefer to keep important panes together and free up more room for the data preview.
Benefits:
More intuitive layout (Queries + Query Settings on the same side).
Less horizontal scroll when working with wide datasets.
Improved ergonomics and workflow efficiency.
2. Provide a “Maximize Data Preview” or “Full-Width Table View” Mode
When working with many columns, the data preview area becomes too narrow.
Suggested Enhancement:
Add an option such as “Maximize Data Preview”, which temporarily hides:
Queries pane
Query Settings pane
Ribbon (optional toggle)
Or provide a single-click “Expand Table View” button that gives more horizontal reading space.
Benefits:
Cleaner, distraction-free data view.
Easier to inspect, clean, and transform wide tables.
Reduces excessive horizontal scrolling.
Greatly improves usability on laptops and smaller monitors.
Why This Matters
Both enhancements will significantly help analysts and developers who:
Work with datasets having 20+ columns
Build complex transformations
Use Power Query daily in Power BI, Excel, or Fabric
These changes will improve productivity, reduce frustration, and enhance the overall user experience.
