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Preparing Your Data for Power BI

Preparing Your Data for Power BI teaches data analysts how to use Power Query to extract, clean, and transform data from Excel, databases, and cloud sources into analytics-ready formats. It solves the critical pain point of unreliable reporting due to poor data quality. With 12% of Data Analyst job postings requiring Power BI skills, mastering data preparation is essential for career relevance.

This course prepares learners for the Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate certification (Exam PL-300), where data preparation accounts for 25–30% of exam content. Koenig offers official vendor-authorized courseware and 30-day lab access, enabling hands-on mastery. Graduates gain the expertise to build trusted models that drive accurate insights and data-driven decision-making.

16 Hours (2 Days)
Live Online / Classroom
1+ professionals trained

Training Formats & Pricing

1-on-1 USD 1,560
Dedicated instructor, your schedule Fastest
Public Batch USD 1,200
Group class, fixed schedule Most Popular
Self-Paced On Request
Recorded sessions, learn anytime Best Value

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Course Overview

The Microsoft course "Preparing Your Data for Power BI" is designed to equip data professionals with essential skills for transforming raw data into actionable insights using Power BI’s robust data preparation tools. This course aligns directly with the Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate certification, specifically preparing learners for the PL-300 exam's "Prepare the data" domain, which constitutes 25–30% of the test. It serves roles such as Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, and Reporting Specialist who are responsible for extracting, cleaning, and modeling data from diverse sources. With over 28,000 active job listings referencing Power BI skills in the U.S. alone, this training meets high industry demand across enterprise environments where Microsoft’s analytics stack dominates.

Learners engage with core technologies including Power Query, Power BI Desktop, Excel, relational databases like SQL Server, NoSQL data stores, and Microsoft Fabric—all within a hands-on lab environment that mirrors real-world enterprise workflows. Students build end-to-end data pipelines by connecting to multiple sources, profiling data quality issues, and applying transformations such as pivoting columns, merging tables, handling null values, and optimizing storage modes. A key project involves cleaning and integrating sales data from disparate formats—such as unstructured spreadsheets and OData feeds—into a unified dataset ready for modeling. These labs are conducted in Power BI Desktop and supported by guided exercises on Microsoft Learn, ensuring practical mastery of M language scripting and query optimization techniques critical for efficient analysis.

This course provides direct preparation for the Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate credential, one of the most recognized certifications in business intelligence with global enterprise adoption. Certified professionals report average annual salaries of $95,000, with strong career advancement potential into senior analyst or analytics engineering roles. Koenig Solutions enhances this learning path with Guaranteed-to-Run batches, ensuring every scheduled session proceeds regardless of enrollment, along with access to official Microsoft courseware and expert-led instruction. By mastering data preparation through this program, analysts position themselves to drive data-driven decision-making and unlock long-term growth in the rapidly expanding field of data analytics.

What You'll Learn

Import data from Microsoft Excel and SQL Server sources to streamline your reporting process with Power BI
Clean and transform data efficiently using Power Query in Power BI to ensure accurate analysis
Profile columns to evaluate data quality and identify issues in Power BI dashboards
Troubleshoot and resolve common data import errors in Power BI to minimize downtime
Select the most suitable Power BI model storage modes to optimize performance and scalability
Choose a Power BI model framework aligned with your project requirements for effective data modeling

Prerequisites

Recommended knowledge before taking this course
  • Understanding data and analytics concepts such as tables, relationships, and calculations is essential for mastering the Preparing Your Data for Power BI course by Microsoft.
  • Basic experience with Power BI Desktop for data import and visualization is required to efficiently prepare datasets.
  • Knowledge of relational and non-relational data sources, including Excel, SQL databases, and NoSQL stores, is necessary for integrating diverse data types.
  • The ability to identify and resolve common data quality issues such as null values, duplicates, and inconsistent formats is required for accurate analysis.
  • Experience with Power Query for data transformation tasks like pivoting, merging, and shaping data is essential for streamlining preparation workflows.
  • Familiarity with M language fundamentals for editing queries in the Power BI Advanced Editor is required for advanced customization.
  • This course serves as foundational preparation for the PL-300: Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst exam.
  • Familiarity with basic DAX expressions is a required technical prerequisite for this course.
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Certification Exam

Everything you need to know about the Preparing Your Data for Power BI certification exam

Exam Details
Exam Name
Preparing Your Data for Power BI
Format
Multiple choice, labs & case studies
Questions
Duration
Passing Score
Validity
Retake Policy
Wait 24 hours after a first failure. Wait 14 days after subsequent attempts. Maximum 5 attempts annually.
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Preparing Your Data for Power BI

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Course Curriculum

Structured learning with hands-on labs and real-world scenarios

1
Day 1– Master Data Ingestion in Power BI
Identify and connect to diverse data sources Import enterprise data from Excel files Connect securely to SQL Server databases Extract complex data from NoSQL sources Access live data from online services Connect to Azure Analysis Services models Select optimal storage modes for performance Resolve common data import connectivity errors
2
Day 2– Clean, Transform, and Load Data Efficiently
Profile data columns for quality assessment Resolve null and inconsistent value errors Standardize column data types for accuracy Simplify complex data structures for analysis Pivot and unpivot data tables effectively Combine multiple queries for unified views Apply user-friendly naming conventions consistently Edit M code in the Advanced Editor
3
Day 3– Build Robust Power BI Model Frameworks
Compare DirectQuery and Import mode benefits Evaluate storage mode for peak performance Design scalable semantic models for business Optimize model relationships for data integrity Implement star schema design best practices Use calculated columns and DAX measures Manage metadata and technical documentation Prepare model for high-impact visualization

What's Included in Your Training

Every enrollment comes packed with resources to maximise your learning and exam success

Career Outcomes

78%

of Preparing Your Data for Power BI certified professionals report career advancement within 6 months

Salary Impact

+18%

Average salary increase reported after obtaining the Preparing Your Data for Power BI certification

Typical Salary Range (Global)
Entry$90,000–$115,000
Mid$115,000–$145,000
Senior$145,000–$180,000

*Source: Glassdoor / LinkedIn 2025

Job Roles

6
  • Power BI Data Analyst
  • Business Intelligence Analyst
  • Data Preparation Specialist
  • Power BI Developer
  • Analytics Consultant
  • BI Report Developer

Companies Hiring

5,000+
Microsoft Accenture Deloitte Infosys Capgemini JPMorgan Chase Amazon PwC

and 5,000+ organizations worldwide seeking Preparing Your Data for Power BI certified professionals

Real Transformations

Course Student Reviews

Real results from IT professionals who trained with Koenig — rated 4.9/5 from 18,400+ verified reviews.

18,400+
Verified Reviews
4.9 / 5
Average Rating
95%
Would Recommend
1M+
Professionals Trained
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the Preparing Your Data for Power BI training course

Is the certification exam included in the Preparing Your Data for Power BI course, and what is the exam fee?
The official certification exam is not included in the Microsoft Preparing Your Data for Power BI course and requires separate purchase. The Microsoft PL-300 exam fee is typically $165 USD, though pricing varies by region. Candidates must register via Pearson VUE to earn the Microsoft Certified: Power BI Data Analyst Associate credential.
What training formats are available for this course, and does Koenig offer Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling?
Koenig delivers Preparing Your Data for Power BI through live online instructor-led, classroom, and self-paced formats. We offer Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling, which ensures your session proceeds as planned even with minimal enrollment. This provides you with reliable access to expert Microsoft training without the risk of last-minute cancellations.
How long is lab access provided, and what type of environment is used for hands-on practice?
Lab access for Preparing Your Data for Power BI is provided for 90 days following your course start date. These labs utilize cloud-hosted Microsoft Azure sandbox environments. This gives you secure, real-time access to Power BI Desktop, Power Query, and sample datasets without the need for complex local infrastructure setup.
What is Koenig's rescheduling and cancellation policy for this course?
Koenig permits free rescheduling for Preparing Your Data for Power BI up to 7 days before the start date. Cancellations within 7 days incur a 15% administrative fee, while those within 24 hours result in a 25% charge. Please submit all requests through our official customer portal or support team.
What is the format, number of questions, passing score, and time limit for the associated certification exam?
The PL-300 exam consists of 40–60 questions, including MCQs and case studies, with a 100-minute time limit. A scaled score of 700 out of 1000 is required to pass. Proctored by Pearson VUE, the exam validates your technical proficiency in data preparation, modeling, visualization, and security for Microsoft Power BI.
How long is the Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst certification valid, and what is the renewal process and cost?
The Microsoft Certified: Power BI Data Analyst Associate credential remains valid for 12 months. You can renew it for free by passing an unproctored online assessment on Microsoft Learn during the six-month eligibility window. This open-book renewal focuses on recent product updates and extends your certification validity by one year.
What post-training support does Koenig provide after completing the Preparing Your Data for Power BI course?
Upon completion, Koenig provides 30 days of dedicated mentor support via email or chat, plus access to recorded sessions and community forums. We also offer expert guidance on exam registration and career development, ensuring you maintain momentum toward achieving your Microsoft certification goals after your training concludes.
What prerequisites or prior experience are recommended for success in this course?
While no formal prerequisites exist, we recommend basic familiarity with Power BI Desktop, Excel, and relational databases. A foundational understanding of data transformation and DAX is beneficial. Microsoft suggests that data analysts and BI professionals possess 6–12 months of hands-on Power BI experience to maximize their learning outcomes.
What career impact and salary increase can professionals expect after earning this certification?
Certified Power BI Data Analysts report average annual salaries between $85,000 and $110,000 USD, often seeing a 15–20% salary increase post-certification. This credential validates your expertise in data preparation and modeling, significantly enhancing your job placement prospects and promotion potential within competitive, data-driven organizations globally.
How does instructor-led training compare to self-study for mastering data preparation in Power BI?
Instructor-led training provides structured guidance and real-time feedback, improving your PL-300 exam readiness by 40% compared to self-study. Unlike isolated learning, Koenig’s approach includes expert mentorship and live lab environments. This ensures you master critical Power Query, data cleaning, and model optimization skills required for professional success.
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