Skip to main content
Transformation: Sum

Use the Sum transformation in Nexadata Pipelines to compute and output a single-column sum for a selected numeric column.

Quin Eddy avatar
Written by Quin Eddy
Updated over a month ago

The Sum transformation in Nexadata Pipelines allows you to quickly calculate the total value of a single numeric column. This transformation is ideal for generating simple, one-column CSV outputs, such as summing a sales column or calculating the total of expense values. Depending on the level of control required, you can configure the transformation using Natural Language Mode or Advanced Mode.


Inputs for the Sum Transformation

  1. Name of the Transformation: In Natural Language Mode, the transformation name is automatically generated, but you can update it later in Advanced Mode. For instance, you might rename it to something descriptive, like "Total Sales Calculation" or "Expense Sum".

  2. Column to Sum: Select a single numeric column you want to aggregate. Only numeric columns are eligible for this transformation.


Using Natural Language Mode

In Natural Language Mode, you can describe the sum calculation, and Nexadata will automatically set up the transformation. The transformation name will also be generated automatically, but you can adjust it in Advanced Mode if desired.

Example Instructions in Natural Language Mode

  • Calculate the sum of the Sales column.

  • Compute the total for the Expense_Total column.

  • Sum all values in the Revenue column.

Note: If Natural Language Mode doesn’t fully capture your needs, you can switch to Advanced Mode to refine the setup.


Using Advanced Mode

In Advanced Mode, you can manually configure the Sum transformation by selecting a single column and defining the transformation name.

Steps in Advanced Mode

  1. Name of the Transformation: Enter or update a custom name, such as "Total Expenses" or "Revenue Sum".

  2. Column to Sum: Select the numeric column you wish to sum, such as "Sales" or "Expense_Total".

Output Format

The Sum transformation generates a simple CSV output with a single column and a single computed value:

  • Header: The header for the column will be SUM.

  • Sum Value: The computed total for the selected column appears directly below the header.

This structure provides a straightforward, one-column CSV output, making it easy to view and use the summed value in further analysis or reporting.


Example Use Case

The Sum transformation is particularly useful for scenarios requiring a quick, aggregated total of a single column. For example, if you have a Sales column and need to calculate the total sales for a given period:

  • Transformation Name: Total Sales

  • Column to Sum: Sales

The output CSV will display a single SUM column with the total sales amount beneath it.

Here is the sample output:

SUM

150,000


Summary

The Sum transformation in Nexadata Pipelines enables a simple, one-column summation of a selected numeric column. Use Natural Language Mode for a fast setup or Advanced Mode for more control over configuration. This transformation is ideal for generating single-column summaries, such as total sales or expenses.

Did this answer your question?