Using Power Query to Shape Data in Excel Workbooks

Where should you shape your data when using a data source for different workbooks in Excel?

A. Select an answer in Power Query when you create the first workbook

B. In Excel workbooks once they are created

C. In Power Query when you create the new workbooks

Final answer:

When using a data source for different workbooks in Excel, it is recommended to shape your data in Power Query when you create the first workbook. This ensures consistency and enhances data quality across the workbooks.

Explanation:

In Excel, particularly when working with Power Query, it is best to shape your data source as close to its origin as possible. This means shaping it in Power Query when you create the first workbook. By doing so, your actions such as removing columns, changing data types, filtering rows, etc., are recorded and can be repeated easily — a process known as Query Folding. When the same data source is to be used for different workbooks, the shaped data can be loaded into those workbooks. This approach ensures consistency across different workbooks and enhances data quality.