How do you segment data for analysis in Power BI?

Segmenting data for analysis in Power BI allows users to interactively explore and focus on specific subsets of data, which enhances analytical capabilities. Using slicers or filtering is particularly effective for this purpose, as it empowers users to control their view of the data dynamically.

Slicers are visual elements that let users choose specific categories or ranges within their data, such as dates, products, or geographical locations. This means users can click on a slicer to reflect only the relevant data in their reports and visuals. Filtering can be applied similarly, either at the report level or within specific visuals, to limit the data shown based on selected criteria.

This interactive capability is essential in Power BI because it promotes deeper insights by allowing users to focus on what's most relevant to their analysis, facilitating decision-making processes based on specific segments without altering the underlying data model.

While options like calculated columns, creating new datasets, and merging queries contribute to data modeling or transformation, they do not provide the same level of interactivity or specific segmentation for the analytical process as slicers and filtering do. Using these methods deems more appropriate for modifying or preparing data rather than segmenting it for direct exploration and analysis in reports.