11.10. Advanced Filter Controls

In the previous lessons, we learned about the limitations of the normal input box for filtering, as it required an exact match. Now, let's explore advanced filter controls that offer more flexibility and functionality to the viewer.

Flexible Text Operators

Advanced filter controls allow the viewer to choose the type of text operator they want to use for the value they enter. They have access to options like equals, contains, starts with, ends with, and even regex (regular expressions) for more technical users.

For example, if you want to find any landing page that contains "plus redesign", you can type it in the advanced filter control and choose the contains operator. The results will only show the landing pages that match your criteria.

Use Cases for Advanced Filter Controls

Advanced filter controls are particularly useful for dimensions with a large number of values, where the viewer is technically inclined and knows what they're looking for. Some use cases include:

Keyword research: Filter through a list of keywords to find those that contain or start with a specific word or phrase.
Search query analysis: Analyze search queries by finding those that contain or start with a particular term.

This functionality allows users to efficiently filter data without having to scroll through an extensive dropdown list.

For example, an SEO analyst could use advanced filter controls to find all keywords containing "running shoes" or all search queries that start with "best coffee shops." This would enable the analyst to quickly identify trends or insights and make data-driven decisions.

In conclusion, we have covered the basics of filters, controls, and their various use cases. By understanding and applying these concepts in Looker Studio, you can create interactive and efficient reports that empower your users to explore and analyze data effectively.