In this first course of this specialization, you will discover what data visualization is, and how we can use it to better see and understand data. Using Tableau Public, we’ll examine the fundamental concepts of data visualization and explore the Tableau interface, identifying and applying the various tools Tableau has to offer. By the end of the course you will be able to prepare and import data into Tableau and explain the relationship between data analytics and data visualization. This course is designed for the learner who has never used Tableau before, or who may need a refresher or want to explore Tableau in more depth. No prior technical or analytical background is required. The course will guide you through the steps necessary to create your first visualization from the beginning based on data context, setting the stage for you to advance to the next course in the Specialization.



Fundamentals of Visualization with Tableau
This course is part of Data Visualization with Tableau Specialization


Instructors: Desiree' Abbott
Access provided by Coursera Learning Team
269,109 already enrolled
(6,711 reviews)
Recommended experience
What you'll learn
Install Tableau Public Software and create a visualization
Examine and navigate the Tableau Public workspace
Practice and connect to different data sources
Examine ways to define your project
Skills you'll gain
Details to know

Add to your LinkedIn profile
4 assignments
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

Build your subject-matter expertise
- Learn new concepts from industry experts
- Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
- Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
- Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 4 modules in this course
Why does data visualization matter—and how do you know if it’s done well? In this module, you’ll explore the foundations of effective visual communication. Through video lessons, expert insights, and hands-on exploration of public Tableau visualizations, you’ll learn how data stories can bring clarity, influence decision-making, and inspire action. You’ll also uncover the risks of poor design and discover key principles—like knowing your audience, keeping it simple, and maintaining data honesty—that set great visualizations apart. This is where your journey in visual analytics begins.
What's included
7 videos2 readings1 assignment
In this module, you’ll get comfortable working inside Tableau Public—the free version of Tableau’s data visualization software. You’ll learn how to connect to your own data, understand the layout of worksheets and dashboards, and begin building visualizations using key features like the Data pane, canvas, and Show Me tab. You’ll also explore how Tableau handles different data types—like measures and dimensions—and how aggregations work behind the scenes. By the end of this module, you’ll be ready to start building charts with confidence using your own datasets.
What's included
10 videos3 readings1 assignment1 plugin
Good data visualization isn’t just about clarity—it’s about responsibility. In this module, you’ll explore how bias can creep into visualizations, even unintentionally, and learn how to design with fairness, ethics, and audience needs in mind. Through real-world examples and a hands-on activity, you’ll practice tailoring a chart for a specific audience, reflecting on how choices like labels, annotations, and context can shape perception. Whether you’re creating for executives, analysts, or the public, you’ll leave this module with strategies to design visualizations that are both impactful and trustworthy.
What's included
5 videos1 reading1 assignment1 plugin
In this final module, you’ll put everything you’ve learned into action by creating and publishing your first Tableau visualization. You’ll explore how to select the right chart type for your message—whether it’s a trend line or a comparison bar chart—and how to refine your visuals using annotations, labels, and tooltips. You’ll also learn how to make your dashboards accessible and inclusive by following best practices in visual design and layout. By the end of this module, you’ll be ready to share your work publicly and with confidence.
What's included
5 videos1 reading1 assignment1 plugin
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.
Instructors

Offered by
Why people choose Coursera for their career




Learner reviews
6,711 reviews
- 5 stars
66.20%
- 4 stars
24.22%
- 3 stars
5.79%
- 2 stars
1.72%
- 1 star
2.04%
Showing 3 of 6711
Reviewed on Oct 5, 2017
I think I loved everything about this class. It wasn't easy, but it was fun and enlightened me on better ways to tell stories and tell stories with data visualization. Can't wait for class 2.
Reviewed on Aug 25, 2020
Am glad I learnt a lot from this module, which I know will sharpen my skills for my chosen career path as a data scientist. Am hoping to learn more new skills to improve on my already existing skills.
Reviewed on Mar 12, 2021
Very good introduction to Tableau and visualizations. It's quite easy, but I has really attracted my interest in the topic and I am very curious about the next course of this specialization.
Explore more from Data Science
Tableau Learning Partner
Tableau Learning Partner
SkillUp EdTech

Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy