Top 40 Power BI Interview Questions and Answers 2025

Bookmarks in Power BI are a feature that allows users to save and organize specific views of a report or dashboard.

• Bookmarks help users to easily navigate and switch between different report views.

• They can be used to save filters, slicer selections, visualizations, and other report settings.

• Bookmarks can be created manually or through Power BI's recording feature.

• They can be accessed and managed through the Bookmarks pane in Power BI Desktop or the Bookmarks menu in Power BI ...read more

Tableau was preferred due to its ease of use and better visualization capabilities.

• Tableau has a more user-friendly interface compared to Power BI.

• Tableau offers better visualization options and allows for more customization.

• Tableau has a larger community and more resources available for support.

• Power BI is more suitable for data modeling and analysis.

• The decision to use Tableau over Power BI was based on the specific needs of the project.

Calculated columns are computed during data loading, while measures are computed on the fly during data visualization.

• Calculated columns are created in the data model and stored in the underlying table.

• Measures are created using DAX expressions and are calculated dynamically based on the context of the visualization.

• Calculated columns consume memory and can impact performance, while measures are more efficient.

• Calculated columns are useful for static calculations, while measu...read more

Qlik is a data visualization and business intelligence platform, similar to Power BI.

• Qlik and Power BI are both data visualization and business intelligence tools.

• Qlik offers a unique associative data model that allows users to explore data relationships more easily.

• Power BI has a strong integration with Microsoft products and services.

• Qlik has a more flexible and customizable user interface compared to Power BI.

• Both tools have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the choi...read more

Power BI can connect to SQL databases to import data, create visualizations, and generate reports.

• Power BI can connect to SQL Server, Azure SQL Database, and other SQL-based data sources.

• Users can import data from SQL databases into Power BI for analysis and visualization.

• Queries can be written in Power BI to directly query SQL databases for real-time data updates.

• Power BI can create interactive dashboards and reports based on SQL data.

• Users can schedule data refreshes to kee...read more

Live dashboards can be created in Power BI by connecting to real-time data sources and using features like streaming datasets and push datasets.

• Connect to real-time data sources such as Azure Stream Analytics, Azure Event Hubs, or Power Automate

• Create streaming datasets to continuously update data in real-time

• Use push datasets to push data from external sources to Power BI

• Design visualizations and add them to a dashboard

• Set up automatic data refresh intervals for real-time up...read more

Power BI can connect to SQL databases using SQL queries in the Power Query Editor.

• Power BI can connect to SQL databases by importing data from SQL Server, Azure SQL Database, or other SQL sources.

• In Power Query Editor, you can write SQL queries directly to retrieve data from SQL databases.

• You can also use the 'Get Data' option in Power BI to connect to SQL databases and import data using SQL queries.

Power BI has over 200 formulas that can be used for data analysis and visualization.

• Power BI has a wide range of formulas for different purposes such as aggregation, filtering, and data manipulation.

• Some commonly used formulas in Power BI include SUM, AVERAGE, MAX, MIN, IF, and SWITCH.

• Power BI also allows users to create custom formulas using DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) language.

• The number of formulas in Power BI is constantly growing as new features and updates are relea...read more

Data in Power BI is stored in a compressed columnar format called VertiPaq.

• Data in Power BI is stored in a compressed columnar format called VertiPaq.

• VertiPaq stores data in memory, allowing for fast query performance.

• Power BI also supports DirectQuery mode where data is queried directly from the data source.

• Data can be imported into Power BI or connected live to the data source.

Power BI is a business analytics tool used to visualize and analyze data. Power Query is a data transformation and shaping tool in Power BI.

• Power BI is a powerful business intelligence tool developed by Microsoft.

• It allows users to connect to various data sources, transform and clean the data, and create interactive visualizations and reports.

• Power BI enables data analysts to gain insights and make data-driven decisions.

• Power Query is a data transformation and shaping tool wi...read more

I prefer MicroStrategy over Power BI due to its robust security features and scalability.

• MicroStrategy offers more advanced security features compared to Power BI, making it a preferred choice for organizations with strict data security requirements.

• MicroStrategy is known for its scalability, allowing for large volumes of data to be processed efficiently and effectively.

• MicroStrategy provides a wide range of data visualization options and customization capabilities, giving us...read more

To add a date table in Power BI, you can create a new table with a list of dates and relationships with other tables.

• Create a new table in Power BI with a list of dates

• Add columns for day, month, year, etc. for additional analysis

• Establish relationships between the date table and other tables in the data model

Use data modeling techniques, optimize data sources, and leverage Power BI features like aggregations and incremental refresh.

• Utilize data modeling techniques like creating relationships, hierarchies, and calculated columns to optimize data.

• Optimize data sources by using query folding, reducing unnecessary columns, and filtering data before loading into Power BI.

• Leverage Power BI features like aggregations to pre-calculate summarized data for faster query performance.

• Implemen...read more

To create a dashboard in Power BI for larger data, use data modeling, optimize data loading, utilize DAX calculations, and design visually appealing visuals.

• Utilize data modeling to structure and organize large datasets efficiently

• Optimize data loading by using query folding and reducing unnecessary data

• Leverage DAX calculations for complex calculations and measures

• Design visually appealing visuals using various chart types and interactive elements

sum vs sumx in Power BI, x-Velocity, optimization techniques, project-related questions

• sum is an aggregation function that calculates the total of a column, while sumx is an iterator function that performs a calculation for each row and then aggregates the results

• x-Velocity is a feature in Power BI that optimizes data storage and query performance by compressing and indexing data

• Optimization techniques in Power BI include data modeling, query optimization, and performance tun...read more

Yes, I have used Power BI for various types of visualization including bar charts, line charts, pie charts, and maps.

• I have experience creating bar charts to visualize sales data over time.

• I have used line charts to show trends in customer engagement metrics.

• I have utilized pie charts to display market share data.

• I have incorporated maps to visualize geographic distribution of sales.

Row level security in Power BI allows restricting access to specific rows of data based on user roles. Package level information in SSIS refers to metadata about the SSIS package itself.

• Row level security in Power BI can be implemented using roles and filters to control access to specific rows of data.

• Package level information in SSIS includes details like package name, version, description, and connection managers used.

• Row level security in Power BI is crucial for ensuring d...read more

Power BI works on the VertiPaq engine.

• Power BI uses the VertiPaq engine for data storage and querying.

• VertiPaq is an in-memory columnar storage engine developed by Microsoft.

• VertiPaq is also used in other Microsoft products like SQL Server Analysis Services.

Filters in Power BI allow users to narrow down data based on specific criteria.

• Filters can be applied to visuals, pages, or the entire report.

• There are different types of filters such as visual-level, page-level, and report-level filters.

• Filters can be based on single or multiple values, ranges, or advanced conditions.

• Examples of filters include filtering data by date, category, or region.

• Filters can be applied manually or through interactions with other visuals.

Power BI is a business analytics service by Microsoft that provides interactive visualizations and business intelligence capabilities.

• Power BI allows users to connect to multiple data sources and create interactive reports and dashboards.

• It provides a wide range of visualization options and allows users to customize them according to their needs.

• Power BI also has advanced features like natural language processing and machine learning capabilities.

• It can be used for various da...read more

To share a Power BI report with an external user, we can use the Publish to Web feature or share it via email.

• Use the Publish to Web feature to generate an embed code that can be shared with external users

• Ensure that the report contains only non-sensitive data before using the Publish to Web feature

• Alternatively, share the report via email by granting access to the external user's email address

• The external user must have a Power BI account to view the report

Tableau and Power BI are both data visualization tools used for analyzing and presenting data.

• Tableau and Power BI are both used to create interactive dashboards and reports.

• Tableau offers more advanced data visualization capabilities and a wider range of chart types.

• Power BI is tightly integrated with other Microsoft products and offers seamless data integration.

• Tableau has a steeper learning curve compared to Power BI.

• Both tools have their own strengths and weaknesses, and ...read more

Recreating a Power BI report with DAX function and proper visual.

• Understand the data model and relationships in the original report.

• Identify the DAX functions used in the original report.

• Create calculated columns and measures using DAX.

• Design appropriate visuals to represent the data effectively.

Power BI is preferred over Tableau for its seamless integration with Microsoft products and user-friendly interface.

• Seamless integration with Microsoft products like Excel, SharePoint, and Teams

• User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality for easy data visualization

• Cost-effective solution for organizations already using Microsoft products

• Faster data processing and refreshing capabilities compared to Tableau

• Robust DAX language for creating complex calculations and ...read more

Row context filter is a filter applied to individual rows of data in a table or dataset.

• Row context filter is used to filter data at the row level in Power BI or other BI tools.

• It allows for filtering specific rows based on certain criteria or conditions.

• For example, you can apply a row context filter to only show sales data for a specific product category.

Power BI offers more advanced data visualization and analysis capabilities compared to Excel.

• Power BI allows for interactive and dynamic data visualization, making it easier to identify trends and patterns.

• Power BI can handle larger datasets more efficiently than Excel.

• Power BI offers more advanced data modeling and transformation capabilities.

• Power BI allows for easy sharing and collaboration on reports and dashboards.

• Power BI integrates with a wide range of data sources, ma...read more

Drill down and drill through are interactive features in Power BI that allow users to explore data in more detail.

• Drill down allows users to navigate from a higher level of data to a more detailed level by clicking on a visual element, such as a bar chart or table.

• Drill through allows users to access a more detailed report or page by clicking on a specific data point within a visual element.

• Both features provide users with the ability to analyze data in a more granular way an...read more

Tableau is more user-friendly and better for data visualization, while Power BI is more powerful for data manipulation and integration.

• Tableau is known for its ease of use and intuitive drag-and-drop interface.

• Power BI has more advanced data manipulation capabilities and better integration with Microsoft products.

• Tableau is better for creating visually appealing dashboards and reports, while Power BI is better for complex data analysis and modeling.

• Power BI offers more advanc...read more

DAX can be used to create calculated columns or measures to handle inactive relationships in Power BI.

• Use DAX functions like USERELATIONSHIP to specify which relationship to use in calculations.

• Consider using DAX functions like CALCULATE and FILTER to work with inactive relationships.

• Example: CALCULATE(SUM('Table'[Column]), USERELATIONSHIP('Table'[RelatedColumn], 'RelatedTable'[RelatedColumn]))

VLook up is a function in Excel and Power BI used to search for a value in a table and return a corresponding value from another column.

• VLook up is used to search for a value in the first column of a table and return a value in the same row from a specified column.

• It is commonly used for data analysis, merging datasets, and creating reports.

• In Excel, the formula syntax for VLook up is =VLOOKUP(lookup_value, table_array, col_index_num, [range_lookup]).

• In Power BI, VLook up can...read more

Create a dashboard using Power Bi or Tableau

• Gather relevant data sources for analysis

• Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) to track

• Design visually appealing and user-friendly dashboard

• Utilize interactive features for data exploration

• Include filters and slicers for customization

• Consider audience needs and tailor dashboard accordingly

Power BI is more user-friendly and better for Microsoft users, while Tableau is more powerful and flexible for advanced analytics.

• Power BI is more user-friendly and integrates well with Microsoft products like Excel and SQL Server.

• Tableau is more powerful and flexible, allowing for more advanced analytics and visualizations.

• Power BI is better suited for beginners or those who are already using Microsoft products, while Tableau is preferred by data professionals for its advanc...read more

RLS is a security feature in Power BI. Measure is a calculation based on column values. Calculated column is a new column created based on a formula.

• RLS restricts data access based on user roles

• Measures are dynamic calculations based on column values

• Calculated columns are static calculations based on a formula

• Measures are used in visualizations, while calculated columns are used in tables

• Example of measure: Total Sales = SUM(Sales[Amount])

• Example of calculated column: Profit ...read more

Power BI visuals are interactive graphical representations of data that help users analyze and understand information.

• Power BI visuals include charts, graphs, maps, tables, and custom visuals.

• Users can customize visuals by changing colors, fonts, and other properties.

• Visuals can be interactive, allowing users to drill down into data for more detailed analysis.

• Examples of Power BI visuals include bar charts, pie charts, line graphs, and scatter plots.

Power BI and Tableau are both powerful data visualization tools, but they have some key differences.

• Power BI is more user-friendly and integrates well with Microsoft products.

• Tableau is known for its advanced analytics capabilities and flexibility in data visualization.

• Power BI is often preferred by organizations already using Microsoft products, while Tableau is popular among data analysts and data scientists.

• Tableau has a steeper learning curve compared to Power BI.

• Power BI...read more

Bookmarks in Power BI are used to save the current state of a report page, including filters, slicers, and visuals.

• Bookmarks allow users to save specific views of a report page for easy navigation.

• To restrict filters from affecting visual data when using bookmarks, you can use the 'Edit interactions' feature to control how visuals interact with each other.

• By setting the interactions between visuals to 'None' for certain bookmarks, you can ensure that filters do not affect the...read more

Power BI and Tableau have limitations in terms of data connectivity, customization, and pricing.

• Limited data connectivity options compared to other tools

• Limited customization capabilities for advanced analytics

• High pricing for enterprise-level features

• Tableau has better visualization capabilities but can be more complex to use

• Power BI is more user-friendly but may lack certain advanced features

Different charts in Power BI have various use cases such as visualizing trends, comparing data, and highlighting outliers.

• Bar charts are useful for comparing data across categories.

• Line charts are great for showing trends over time.

• Pie charts can be used to show the proportion of each category in a dataset.

• Scatter plots are helpful for identifying relationships between two variables.

• Gantt charts are ideal for visualizing project timelines and dependencies.

I will share Power BI reports through email, shared folders, and scheduled data refreshes.

• Share reports via email with stakeholders

• Store reports in shared folders for easy access

• Schedule data refreshes to ensure reports are up-to-date

Power BI is a business analytics service by Microsoft that provides interactive visualizations and business intelligence capabilities.

• Power BI allows users to connect to a wide range of data sources

• Users can create custom visualizations and reports

• Power BI offers a variety of features such as data modeling, data transformation, and data analysis

• Projects in Power BI can range from simple dashboards to complex data models

• Examples of Power BI projects include sales dashboards, f...read more

Power BI is a powerful data visualization tool that allows users to create interactive and insightful reports and dashboards.

• Power BI allows users to connect to various data sources such as Excel, SQL databases, and online services.

• Users can create visually appealing reports by dragging and dropping fields onto a canvas.

• Interactive features like slicers, filters, and drill-down capabilities enhance data exploration.

• Power BI offers a wide range of visualization options includi...read more