+++
title = "Preparing your data"
date = 2021-01-18T12:36:11+01:00
weight = 54
chapter = true
pre = "<b>6.4. </b>"
+++

### Preparing your data

1. You can edit an existing data set to perform data preparation. To edit a data set from the **Analysis page**, choose the small edit icon in the top left above <b>Fields list</b>.
This should open list of data sets in this analysis. Choose the data set to edit and click on the three dots on the right of the data set chosen, then click **Edit**. The data set opens in the data preparation page.

![image](/visualization_images/edit-dataset-icon.png)

<!---You can duplicate an existing data set to save a copy of it with a new name. The new data set is a completely separate copy.  Choose **Duplicate** data set, and enter a name for the copy.--->

2. We suggest that you pick two - three columns from your data set that meet the following criteria:
  * The first column is a date column (can be year, month or day. Usually marked by **calendar icon**
in **Fields list** on the left)
  * The second column is a quantifiable number (revenue, count, distance, etc. Usually
marked by a **green hash #**)
  * The third column has categorical value, which means it has specific limited set of values (type,
category, etc. Usually marked by **ticket icon**)

3. Optional - Change the data type. You can change the field's data type in one of the available data types.
<!---  
  * Go to the datasets page
![image](img/manage-data.png)

  * Choose your dataset
![image](img/choose-dataset.png)

  * Choose to Edit your Dataset
![image](img/Edit-dataset.png)
--->
  * Press over the three dots on the right side of the field you want to modify
  * Choose one of the available data types

![image](/visualization_images/arrow-edit-dataset-type.png)


  * You can also modify the **format of your date field(s)** into one of the supported formats.
    ![image](/visualization_images/DateFormat.png)

  * Once you finish your edit, press the **Publish and Visualize** button on top of the screen.
![image](/visualization_images/save-visualize.png)