How to Sum in Power BI

Updated on:

May 12, 2026

By:

Use this interactive demo to learn how to calculate column sums using DAX measures in Power BI.

Quick summary

The SUM function in Power BI lets you aggregate column values using a DAX measure created in the Modelling tab. Once created, the measure can be applied to any visual in your report to display summed totals instantly.

Steps

Click on the visual and navigate to the Modelling tab.
Select New Measure from the Modelling tab options.
Type the DAX code in the formula bar and select the SUM function.
Select the column name you want to sum.
Click the check icon to commit the measure.
Use the new measure in any visual to sum values across your Power BI report.

📌 Why this matters

Knowing how to use the SUM function in Power BI through a DAX measure is a foundational skill for any data analyst or business intelligence professional. Unlike simple column aggregations, a DAX measure gives you reusable, flexible summing logic that works across every visual in your report. This approach ensures accurate, consistent totals whether you're building dashboards for sales, finance, or operations. Mastering this technique helps teams make faster, data-driven decisions without relying on manual calculations outside the tool.

Your product deserves an interactive demo

Start free

How to Uninstall Power BI

How to Compare Two Measures in Power BI

How to Compare Months in Power BI