Understanding the M Code Formatter Feature

Introduction #

M code, also known as Power Query M Formula Language, is used in Power BI for data transformation and manipulation. Writing and maintaining complex M code can be challenging due to readability issues. The M Code Formatter feature helps to enhance the readability and maintainability of M code by automatically formatting it according to best practices. This guide explains how the M Code Formatter feature works and how you can use it in Pobido.

How the M Code Formatter Feature Works #

The M Code Formatter feature improves the readability of your M code by restructuring it. This includes:

• Indentation: Properly indenting code blocks to show the hierarchy and logical structure.
• Line Breaks: Inserting line breaks to separate different sections of the code.
• Whitespace Management: Adjusting whitespace for better visual clarity.
• Consistent Naming: Ensuring consistent use of function and variable names.

Steps to Use the M Code Formatter in Power BI Desktop #

1. Open Your Power BI Report
   • Launch Power BI Desktop.
   • Open the report containing the M code you wish to format.
2. Access the M Code
   • Navigate to the Home tab and click on Transform data to open the Power Query Editor.
   • In the Power Query Editor, select the query containing the M code you want to format.
   • Click on the Advanced Editor button to view the M code.
3. Copy the M Code
   • Select the entire M code.
   • Right-click and choose Copy, or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + C.
4. Use the M Code Formatter Tool
   • Open your web browser and navigate to the PQ Formatter in Pobido .
   • In the text box provided on the website, paste your M code by right-clicking and selecting Paste, or using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + V.
5. Format the M Code
   • Click the Format M Code button on the website.
   • The website will process your code and display the formatted version in the text box below.
6. Copy the Formatted Code
   • Select the newly formatted M code.
   • Right-click and choose Copy, or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + C.
7. Replace the Original Code
   • Return to the Power Query Editor in Power BI Desktop.
   • Replace the original M code with the formatted code by pasting it into the Advanced Editor.
8. Save Your Changes
   • Ensure the formatted code works correctly by verifying the results of your query.
   • Click Close & Apply to save your changes and return to Power BI Desktop.

Benefits of Using the M Code Formatter #

• Improved Readability: Formatted code is easier to read, making it simpler to understand the logic and flow.
• Easier Maintenance: Well-structured code is easier to maintain and update.
• Reduced Errors: Clear formatting can help to quickly identify and fix errors in the code.
• Collaboration: Consistent formatting standards improve collaboration among team members.

Conclusion #

The M Code Formatter feature is a valuable tool for Power BI users who want to improve the readability and maintainability of their M code. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can efficiently format your M code, making it easier to understand and work with.