How To Combine Two Tables In Excel Pivot: Easy Guide
Are you struggling to effectively analyze and summarize data in Excel? Do you find it challenging to combine multiple tables and extract meaningful insights? Look no further! In this easy guide, we will show you how to effortlessly combine two tables in Excel Pivot, unleashing the power of data analysis at your fingertips.
But wait, you might be wondering, is it really possible to combine tables easily in Excel Pivot? Can it truly simplify the way we analyze data? The answer is a resounding yes! By following a few simple steps, you can harness the full potential of Excel Pivot and revolutionize your data analysis process.
In this article, we will walk you through the process of combining two tables in Excel Pivot, from importing related tables to adding fields and optionally creating relationships between the tables. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced Excel user, this guide will equip you with the skills to unlock the true power of Excel Pivot.
So, are you ready to dive into the world of data analysis with Excel Pivot? Let’s get started!
Step One: Import Related Tables
The first step in combining two tables in Excel pivot is to import the related tables from a database. This is done by connecting to a database such as SQL Server, Oracle, Access, DB2, or MySQL. Additional client software may need to be installed depending on the database being used. It is important to note that not all import options are available on Excel for Mac.
- Open Excel and go to the Data tab.
- Click on “Get Data” and select “From Database”.
- Choose the type of database you are using.
- Enter the server name, database name, and any necessary authentication details.
- Select the tables you want to import and click “Load” to import the data into Excel.
| Database | Access Method | Client Software Required |
|---|---|---|
| SQL Server | ODBC | ODBC driver for SQL Server |
| Oracle | OLE DB | Oracle client software |
| Access | OLE DB | No additional software required |
| DB2 | ODBC | IBM DB2 client software |
| MySQL | ODBC or MySQL | MySQL Connector/ODBC or MySQL Connector/NET |
Step Two: Add Fields to the PivotTable
Once the related tables are imported, it’s time to add fields to the PivotTable. The Field List will display all the tables that were selected during the import process. You can expand and collapse each table to view its fields. As long as the tables are related, you can drag fields from any table to the VALUES, ROWS, or COLUMNS areas.
When adding fields to the PivotTable, it’s important to consider the type of data you want to analyze. Numeric fields, such as sales amounts or quantities, can be dragged to the VALUES area. This will allow you to perform calculations, such as sum or average, on these values. Date or territory fields, on the other hand, can be dragged to the ROWS or COLUMNS area to provide a time or geographic perspective to your analysis.
To add fields to the PivotTable, follow these steps:
- Click on any field in the Field List.
- Drag the field to the desired area – VALUES, ROWS, or COLUMNS.
- Release the mouse button to drop the field in the chosen area.
By adding fields to the PivotTable, you can customize the analysis based on your specific requirements. This flexibility allows you to dive deep into the data and gain valuable insights.
| Area | Purpose |
|---|---|
| VALUES | Perform calculations (e.g., sum, average, count) on numeric fields |
| ROWS | Group data by a particular field (e.g., date, territory) |
| COLUMNS | Create separate columns for different field values (e.g., months, regions) |
Step Three: Optionally Create Relationships
In order to fully utilize the power of Excel pivot and combine two tables, you may need to create a relationship between them. This step allows you to establish a connection that enables seamless data analysis within a PivotTable.
If you encounter a message indicating the need for a relationship, simply click on “Create” to initiate the process. This will prompt Excel to guide you through the necessary steps.
It is important to note that while creating relationships is an optional step, it can significantly enhance your data analysis capabilities. By establishing relationships between tables, you can consolidate and link related data for more comprehensive insights and analysis.
While developing these relationships, it is worth mentioning that data models and certain import options are not supported in Excel for Mac. However, you can still create relationships using the Diagram View feature, which is a valuable alternative.
Diagram View: Creating Relationships
The Diagram View option in Excel presents a visual representation of your tables and allows you to define relationships between them. This added functionality enhances your flexibility and control over your data analysis.
To access the Diagram View, follow these steps:
- Click on the “Data” tab in the Excel ribbon.
- Select “Diagram View” from the “Data Tools” group.
- The Diagram View will open, displaying your imported tables.
- Drag and connect the relevant fields between tables to create relationships.
By utilizing the Diagram View and its intuitive interface, you can easily establish connections and further optimize your Excel pivot analysis.
| Benefits of Creating Relationships | Considerations |
|---|---|
| 1. Consolidation of related data for comprehensive analysis | 1. Data models and certain import options not supported on Excel for Mac |
| 2. Enhances data accuracy and integrity | 2. Diagram View feature provides an alternative for Mac users |
| 3. Simplifies data navigation and filtering |
Additional Tips for Combining Tables in Excel Pivot
In addition to importing and adding fields, there are a few extra tips for combining tables in Excel pivot. By utilizing these tips, you can maximize the effectiveness of your data analysis and gain valuable insights. Here are some additional tips to consider:
1. Utilize Tables within Your Workbook
Take advantage of the tables already present within your workbook. These tables can be easily integrated with other tables and used in your PivotTable analysis. By leveraging existing data, you can save time and avoid the need for additional imports.
2. Import Data Feeds for Integration
Importing data feeds allows you to integrate new data with your existing tables. By combining these feeds, you can expand the scope of your analysis and gain a more comprehensive view of your data. This is especially useful when dealing with multiple data sources or periodic updates.
3. Add Tables to the Data Model
To combine unrelated data and make it work together seamlessly, consider adding each table to the Data Model. The Data Model is a feature in Excel that allows you to create relationships between tables based on matching field values. By establishing these relationships, you can effectively merge and analyze data from different sources.
4. Create Relationships Using Matching Field Values
When adding tables to the Data Model, ensure that you establish relationships based on matching field values. This will enable Excel to intelligently combine and analyze the data across different tables. Building these relationships is crucial in creating accurate and insightful PivotTables.
5. Leverage Data Models for Analysis
After creating a Data Model with the combined tables, you can use this data for in-depth analysis. Excel provides powerful tools for analyzing the data within the Data Model, including the ability to create new PivotTables or PivotCharts. This allows you to explore and visualize your data from different perspectives, uncovering valuable insights that can inform your decision-making process.
Implementing these additional tips will enhance your data analysis capabilities when combining tables in Excel pivot. By utilizing existing tables, importing data feeds, adding tables to the Data Model, creating relationships, and leveraging the Data Model for analysis, you can unlock the full potential of Excel pivot tables and make more informed business decisions.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Utilize tables within your workbook |
| 2 | Import data feeds for integration |
| 3 | Add tables to the Data Model |
| 4 | Create relationships using matching field values |
| 5 | Leverage data models for analysis |
Conclusion
Combining two tables in Excel pivot is a straightforward and effective method for analyzing and summarizing data.
By importing related tables and adding fields to the PivotTable, you can unlock the full potential of Excel pivot tables and gain valuable insights for your data analysis needs.
Creating relationships between the tables is optional, but can further enhance your analysis and provide a more comprehensive view of your data.
With these techniques, you will be able to enhance your data analysis skills and make more informed decisions based on the combined power of Excel pivot tables and multiple data sources.
FAQ
What are the basic steps to combine two tables in Excel pivot?
The basic steps to combine two tables in Excel pivot are: 1) Import related tables, 2) Add fields to the PivotTable, and 3) Optionally create relationships between the tables.
How can I import related tables in Excel pivot?
You can import related tables in Excel pivot by connecting to a database like Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, or Access and selecting the tables you want to import. You can import multiple tables at the same time.
How do I add fields to the PivotTable in Excel pivot?
To add fields to the PivotTable in Excel pivot, you can drag the fields from any imported table to the VALUES, ROWS, or COLUMNS areas. Numeric fields can be dragged to the VALUES area, while date or territory fields can be dragged to the ROWS or COLUMNS area.
When do I need to create relationships between tables in Excel pivot?
You may need to create relationships between tables in Excel pivot when the tables are not automatically related. If you receive a message indicating a relationship is needed, you can click Create to create the relationship. You can also create relationships between tables in the Diagram View using the Data Model feature.
Are there any additional tips for combining tables in Excel pivot?
Yes, there are a few additional tips for combining tables in Excel pivot. You can use tables in your workbook or import data feeds and integrate them with other tables. To make unrelated data work together, you can add each table to the Data Model and create relationships between them using matching field values. This allows you to use the data for analysis and create new PivotTables or PivotCharts using the Data Model.
Vaishvi Desai is the founder of Excelsamurai and a passionate Excel enthusiast with years of experience in data analysis and spreadsheet management. With a mission to help others harness the power of Excel, Vaishvi shares her expertise through concise, easy-to-follow tutorials on shortcuts, formulas, Pivot Tables, and VBA.