Mastering the ABS Function in Looker Studio: Guide to Absolute Value Visualization

The ABS (Absolute Value) function is an integral part of Looker Studio (formerly Google Data Studio), a comprehensive visualisation tool designed to convert your data into informative, easy-to-understand, and dynamic reports and dashboards. This function operates by returning the absolute value of a given number, thus eliminating any negative sign attached to it.

Whether you're looking at sales statistics, user subscriptions, or bounces, employing the ABS function filters distraction from negative values. It assists in focusing on the actual numerical facts regardless of their previous positive or negative connotation.

ABS Function Syntax

The ABS function’s syntax is as simple as‍


ABS(X)

Where X signifies a field or an expression containing, at least, one field. Given that the ABS function only requires one argument, it’s incredibly easy to implement in various scenarios, thus improving its range of applicability.

How the ABS Function Works

The mechanism of the ABS function is relatively straightforward. It accepts a single input X and transforms it into its absolute value. In essence, if X is a number, the function simply removes the negative sign from X if it exists, returning the positive value of X. If X is a calculation that includes fields, the function computes the total and then transforms the resulting number into an absolute value.

Examples of the ABS Function

Let's create an fictitious example using the ABS function. Assume you lead a sales team, and you want to evaluate the performance based on sales achieved versus sales target where X= Sales Target - Sales Achieved.


ABS(Sales Target - Sales Achieved)

For instance;

If Sales Target is $5000 and Sales Achieved is $5500, then X becomes -500. By applying the ABS function, the output will be 500 - showing the amount by which your team exceeded the target, regardless of the negative sign.
If Sales Achieved is $4500 instead, then X becomes 500. By applying the ABS function, the output remains 500 - depicting the shortfall from the target.

Limitations of the ABS Function

The ABS function is prone to inaccuracies if the input values are not numbers (either integers or decimal values). Also, the ABS function cannot accommodate more than one argument/field.

Tips for Using the ABS Function

Carefully consider your data before using ABS function. It's not intended for all numerical operations, particularly those where negative values bear importance to the context.
Utilise the ABS function to simplify complex financial analyses where negative signs could complicate further calculations.
Keep in mind that the ABS function only works with fields that are already numbers or calculations that will result in numerical values.

Therefore, the ABS function provides a user-friendly, straightforward method to work with absolute values, thereby allowing data analysts to focus more on the core numerical values, regardless of their original sign.

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