How Do You Change Data Type in Alteryx?

Changing data types is a common task when working with data in Alteryx. It allows you to convert data from one format to another, which can be essential for data analysis, visualization, and modeling. In this tutorial, we will explore the various methods available in Alteryx to change data types.

Using the Select Tool

The Select tool in Alteryx provides an easy way to change the data type of a particular field. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open your workflow and locate the Select tool in the tool palette.
2. Drag and drop the Select tool onto your canvas.
3. Connect the input data source to the Select tool by clicking on the output anchor of the input and dragging it to the input anchor of the Select tool.
4. Select the field for which you want to change the data type from the drop-down list in the Select tool configuration pane.
5. In the Field Properties section, click on the Data Type column for that field and choose a new data type from the drop-down list.
6. If needed, you can also modify other properties like Field Length or Precision.
7. Click OK to save your changes.

This will change the selected field’s data type according to your specifications.

The Formula Tool Approach

If you want more control over changing multiple fields’ data types or performing complex transformations, you can use Alteryx’s Formula tool:

1. Add a Formula tool to your workflow by dragging and dropping it onto the canvas.
2. Connect the input data source to the Formula tool.
3. Configure the Formula tool by selecting the fields you want to change in the Fields pane.
4. In the Expression pane, use functions like ToInt, ToDate, or ToString to convert the data type of each selected field.
5. You can also perform complex transformations by combining multiple functions or using conditional statements in your expressions.
6. Click OK to apply your changes and close the Formula tool configuration window.

The Formula tool provides a powerful way to change data types and perform calculations simultaneously.

The Text Input/Output Tool Method

If you are working with text files or databases, you can change data types during input or output using Alteryx’s Text Input/Output tools:

1. Add a Text Input or Text Output tool to your workflow, depending on whether you are reading or writing data.
2. Configure the tool’s settings, including file format, delimiters, and encoding options.
3. If you are reading data, specify the desired data types for each field in the Field Properties section of the Text Input tool configuration window. Alteryx will automatically convert the data accordingly during import.
4. If you are writing data, specify the desired data types for each field in the Field Properties section of the Text Output tool configuration window. Alteryx will convert your data to the specified types during export.
5. Click OK to save your changes and close the tool configuration window.

The Text Input/Output tools are particularly useful when working with structured data stored in text files or databases.

Conclusion

Changing data types in Alteryx is a crucial skill for anyone working with data. Whether you prefer the simplicity of the Select tool, the flexibility of the Formula tool, or the convenience of the Text Input/Output tools, Alteryx has you covered. By mastering these techniques, you’ll be able to easily manipulate and analyze your data in a way that suits your needs.

Remember to save your workflow after making any changes to ensure that your modifications are preserved for future use.