Move beyond basic measures. Build enterprise-grade analytics models with the full power of DAX.
Learn DAX from the inside out — from context transitions to time intelligence and arbitrarily shaped filters.
Unlock advanced Power BI, Excel, and SSAS capabilities through a deep understanding of DAX logic and behavior.
Course Overview
DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) is more than just a formula language — it’s the brain behind rich, interactive reporting in Power BI, Excel Power Pivot, and Analysis Services.
This 5-day instructor-led program is designed for data professionals who want to fully understand and harness the DAX language. Covering everything from evaluation context and row-level logic to CALCULATE behavior, iterators, advanced filtering, and many-to-many relationships — this course enables you to create high-performing, reliable analytical solutions.
With real-world labs and a focus on best practices, participants will leave not just with syntax knowledge, but with a deep conceptual understanding of DAX logic and model behavior.
Learning Objectives
DAX syntax, functions, variables, and expressions
Row context, filter context, and context transition
CALCULATE function and modifiers (ALL, USERELATIONSHIP, CROSSFILTER)
Iterators (X functions), RANKX, ISINSCOPE
Time intelligence functions (YOY, MTD, QTD)
Building and using custom Date tables
Hierarchies, segmentation, and shadow filter contexts
Many-to-many relationships and bidirectional filtering
Advanced DAX queries with SUMMARIZE, TOPN, TREATAS
Performance optimization and troubleshooting techniques
Who Should Attend
Power BI users ready to go beyond visuals and explore DAX deeply
Excel Power Pivot and SSAS Tabular model developers
BI professionals and data analysts writing complex calculations
Anyone building enterprise reporting models with row-level security, slicers, or time intelligence
Prerequisites
Familiarity with Power BI or Power Pivot data modeling is required.
Experience with calculated columns, measures, and relationships is recommended.
Course Modules
Module 1: Introduction to DAX
Get started with DAX syntax, data types, basic measures, and functions.
Module 2–3: Table Functions & Evaluation Contexts
Learn to manipulate tables, understand row vs. filter context, and resolve context errors.
Module 4–5: CALCULATE and Advanced Contexts
Master CALCULATE behavior, modifiers, KEEPFILTERS, USERELATIONSHIP, and context transitions.
Module 6–7: Iterators & Date Tables
Work with MINX, MAXX, RANKX, and create high-quality custom date tables.
Module 8–9: Time Intelligence & Hierarchies
Apply advanced time intelligence calculations and use parent-child hierarchies with DAX.
Module 10–12: Advanced Filters & ALLSELECTED
Explore TREATAS, arbitrarily shaped filters, expanded tables, and shadow filter context behavior.
Module 13–16: Segmentation, M2M, & Ambiguity
Handle segmentation, circular dependencies, many-to-many relationships, and bidirectional filters.
Module 17–18: Granularity & Querying DAX
Work with different data granularities and build reusable, efficient DAX queries.
Professional Outcomes
This course prepares you for roles like Senior Power BI Developer, BI Architect, or DAX Specialist — enabling you to build powerful data models for complex enterprise reporting needs.
Certification Details
No specific exam for this course
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a beginner-friendly course?
No. This course is designed for intermediate to advanced Power BI or SSAS users who already work with data models.
Will I learn how to use CALCULATE and context transitions?
Yes. The course provides deep instruction and examples on CALCULATE and how evaluation contexts interact.
Are time intelligence functions included?
Yes. You will learn how to use DAX to calculate YOY, MTD, QTD, running totals, and more.
Will I build my own date table?
Yes. You will create and configure custom date tables and use them for accurate time intelligence.
Does this course cover performance tuning?
Yes. Topics such as context management and advanced filtering help you write faster, optimized DAX.
Is this course hands-on with labs?
Yes. There are 11 lab modules plus a bonus lab to reinforce learning with real data.
Is this applicable for Excel Power Pivot users?
Yes. Everything taught in DAX also applies to Power Pivot and SSAS Tabular.
Is this course HRDC claimable?
Yes. It is fully claimable under HRDC for eligible Malaysian employers.
Can I schedule this for a private team training?
Yes. GemRain offers corporate delivery, both on-site and virtual.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion?
Yes. You will receive an official GemRain certificate after completing the training.