Easy Tech TutsHow to Add Totals and Subtotals in Matrix in Power BI (Full Control) Easily 2026
By Impran M N
A matrix visual becomes far more useful once you have control over its totals and subtotals, letting you summarize data at exactly the level stakeholders need. This guide walks through adding and customizing those totals in Power BI. It's a key skill for quarterly reports, departmental breakdowns, and any dashboard built around aggregated figures.
01Navigate the Power BI interface for matrix visuals
Select or add a matrix visual to your report and open its formatting options to access total and subtotal settings.
02Add totals to a matrix
Turn on the totals setting so the matrix automatically calculates and displays an overall total for your data.
03Add subtotals to a matrix
Enable subtotals at the group level so the matrix shows aggregated figures for each category, such as by department or region.
04Follow best practices for data presentation
Format totals and subtotals distinctly, such as with bold text, so they stand out clearly from the individual rows of data.
05Consider how automation enhances reporting
Keep the matrix connected to a refreshing data source so totals and subtotals stay accurate as new figures come in.
Frequently asked questions
Can I turn off subtotals while keeping the grand total in a matrix?
Yes, Power BI lets you control totals and subtotals separately, so you can show one without the other depending on your needs.
Do totals and subtotals update automatically when data changes?
Yes, since they're calculated dynamically, totals and subtotals update automatically as your underlying data refreshes.
Can I customize how totals are calculated, like sum versus average?
Yes, the aggregation method used for totals can typically be adjusted depending on the measure or field involved.
Is this feature useful for quarterly business reports?
Yes, totals and subtotals are especially useful for summarizing quarterly figures or department-level performance in a matrix.
Will adding subtotals make my matrix harder to read?
Not if formatted clearly, since well-styled subtotals actually make it easier to scan grouped data at a glance.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
