Step 1: Download Tableau software. You can download tableau public (this is free, but all files must be stored online) or tableau desktop, with a trial period of 14 days. If you can prove that you are a student, you can apply to tableau for a free version (there should be a time limit, usually about half a year, which can be extended for half a year). If you study, it is recommended to use Tableau Public first, because there are many functions available.

Step 2: If you use Tableau Public, you can download another Tableau Reader, so you can download files stored on the Internet for local use and viewing (files can be your own or others').

Step 3: Open tableau software:

Connect the data source first. Generally, a novice can just try an excel.

Tableau and excel have somewhat different data structures. It may be necessary to try more data structures to find out the differences.

Step 4: Store the file. Tableau public files can't be saved locally, so you need to make a network link to confirm your account every time you save them. Therefore, when using tableau public, it is best to ensure the smooth network. However, in terms of drawing efficiency, Tableau is much better than excel, especially the patterns are optimized, so it is not necessary to spend time on details.

Step 5: Share and download:

Files stored on the Internet can be downloaded as Tableau files, PDF and images. In addition, you can create a shared link and send it to others.