Qlikview Copy Chart Expression

When I first began using Qlikview, I unknowingly fell victim to a frustrating scenario.  While creating charts, I often needed to write out multiple expressions.  In many cases, the expressions were very similar in structure, with just a couple minor differences.

I then stumbled upon the fact that you can actually copy an expression and paste it into the chart “Expression” pane!  This saves all the formatting and setup done from the original expression.  All you have to do is put a new caption on the expression, and make the minor changes necessary to distinguish the calculation.

This has since saved me a lot of time while creating new Qlik apps and objects, so I will quickly demonstrate this little trick below.

Qlikview Copy Chart Expression

Let’s say you have the following Chart:

Now, you want to add another expression to the chart.  In this example, a simple SUM for receiving yards:

When you apply the change, the formatting does not look like the rest and you have to go back into the chart properties and make several updates.

Here is where the Copy Expression comes into play.  Go back into your chart and into the Expression tab.  This time, instead of adding a new expression, copy an existing expression:

Then paste it

Your newly copied expression looks something like this

All you need to do now is update the Label and expression definition, then click OK.  Your chart now displays the new expression, and it keeps the formatting consistent with the expression that you copied.

This is a great little trick that will save you time when creating more complex expressions and charts.  I hope you found this post useful and encourage any comments or feedback.

 

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