What are calculated fields in Tableau used for?

Calculated fields in Tableau are powerful tools used to perform calculations on data that extend beyond the raw data available in the data source. They allow users to create new data points that can derive insights that are not directly present in the original dataset. This can include mathematical operations, conditional logic, date manipulations, and text processing, among others.

By using calculated fields, analysts can create metrics that better reflect business needs, tailor calculations to specific analysis requirements, or even create new dimensions for grouping and filtering data. The flexibility offered by calculated fields enhances the analytical capabilities within Tableau, facilitating a more in-depth exploration of data and enabling users to derive value from their datasets.

The other options do not fully capture the main purpose of calculated fields. For instance, while creating visualizations is essential in Tableau, it is not the primary function of calculated fields. Connecting to data sources is essential for data analysis, but it is a separate function from the calculations performed on the data once it is imported into Tableau. Similarly, while filtering data is another important aspect of data visualizations, it does not equate to the creation of new calculated metrics or values derived from existing data.