Learn variables, filter context, time intelligence, X and A functions, and how security impacts results, so your Power BI measures stay accurate, readable, and reusable in real reports.
In Intermediate DAX, Angelica Choo Quan helps you move beyond basic measures and start writing calculations that behave consistently in real Power BI reports. You’ll learn how to use variables for cleaner, easier-to-debug DAX, how filter context actually shapes results in visuals, and how to build time intelligence calculations that answer common business questions like month-over-month and year-to-date performance.
You’ll also explore the function families that unlock more flexible analysis, including X functions (row-by-row evaluation) and A functions (quick aggregations). Angelica closes by tying DAX back to governance and security considerations, so your calculations stay reliable when access and filtering rules are involved. By the end, you’ll have a stronger toolkit for building measures that are accurate, readable, and reusable.
Course Outline ( Free Preview)
Module 01 - Introduction
Angelica sets expectations for what “intermediate” DAX means, writing measures that are clearer, more stable in visuals, and easier to maintain. You’ll preview the key topics, variables, context, time intelligence, and function patterns, and learn how they connect to building trustworthy Power BI reports.
Module 02 - Working with Variables
Learn how variables make DAX easier to read, test, and troubleshoot. Angelica shows how to break a measure into logical steps, reuse intermediate results, and reduce repeated logic. This module helps you write measures that are simpler to understand and far easier to fix when results look off.
Module 03 - Filter Context80 min.
Filter context is the engine behind most Power BI calculations. Angelica explains how slicers, visuals, and relationships shape results, and how DAX responds to those filters. You’ll learn to predict measure behavior more accurately and avoid common “why did the total change?” confusion.
Module 04 - Time Intelligence94 min.
Build time-based measures that report users expect, like year-to-date, month-to-date, and period comparisons. Angelica walks through the requirements for time intelligence to work well (especially date table readiness) and shows how to create measures that stay consistent across different date selections and visuals.
Module 05 - Working with X functions15 min.
X functions evaluate expressions row by row before aggregating, which unlocks more advanced logic than simple SUM or AVERAGE. Angelica explains when X functions are necessary, how they interact with context, and what to watch for performance-wise. You’ll learn practical patterns for building accurate totals when simple aggregation isn’t enough.
Module 06 - Working with A Functions15 min.
A functions provide fast, common aggregations and are often a clean alternative to more complex patterns. Angelica shows where these functions fit, how they behave under filters, and how to choose between basic aggregations and iterator-based approaches. The goal is to make your measures simpler while staying correct.
Module 07 - Security28 min.
Learn how security affects what your measures return. Angelica explains how access rules and filtering can change visible data, and why a measure might look “different” for different users. This module helps you design and test DAX with security in mind so results remain trustworthy across audiences.
Module 08 - Class Wrap Up1 min.
Congratulations on completing Intermediate DAX. You now have stronger tools for writing clean measures with variables, working confidently with filter context, and building reliable time intelligence. Keep practicing these patterns and your DAX will become faster to write, easier to debug, and more consistent across reports.
Shortly after graduating from the University of Florida in 2012, Angelica moved to Jacksonville and began her career as a high school Biology teacher. As a trainer at Pragmatic Works, her primary goal is to help individuals feel more comfortable and confident using Power BI. While not in the office, she enjoys traveling around the city of Jax to check out local eateries, live music events, and performing arts.
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