Quick answer: right-click the axis > Edit Axis > under Range choose Fixed > enter Fixed start and Fixed end > close. A pin icon shows the axis is fixed.
A continuous axis in Tableau will default to include 0 and will adjust automatically the range based on the minimum and maximum values in the visualization. However, changing the axis range can be done easily by right-clicking on the axis and selecting edit axis:
After selecting Edit Axis, you’ll see this menu with numerous options including the option to change the axis range.
For example, I can keep the start at 0 but increase the top of the range:
Important Note
This won’t work if you’re using a discrete field (shown with a blue pill) for the axis. Discrete fields don’t actually create axes, they create headers. Each unique value of the discrete field will create a separate header. In the example below, since the State is discrete I don’t get the option to Edit Axis.
Range options explained
- Automatic: fits the data. It starts at zero unless you uncheck “Include zero”.
- Uniform axis range for all rows or columns: every pane uses the same scale.
- Independent axis ranges: each pane gets its own scale.
- Fixed: set the start and end yourself.
Keep the axis from changing when you filter
Use a Fixed range. If you still want it to follow the data, set the end to a calculated maximum with a reference line, or use a dynamic range (below).
Dynamic axis range with parameters
In recent versions of Tableau: Edit Axis > Range: Custom > set Start and/or End to a numeric parameter. Show the parameter control so viewers can zoom.
Dual axis: synchronize, reverse, log scale
- Right-click the secondary axis > Synchronize Axis (both measures must be the same data type).
- Edit Axis > Scale: Reversed or Logarithmic.
Edit the axis title and tick marks
Edit Axis > Axis Titles for the title. The Tick Marks tab sets major/minor intervals.
FAQ
How do I edit the axis in Tableau?
Right-click the axis and choose Edit Axis.
How do I stop the axis from starting at zero?
Edit Axis > uncheck “Include zero”.
How do I keep the axis fixed when filtering?
Set Range to Fixed.
Can the axis range use a parameter?
Yes, in recent versions of Tableau, with Range: Custom.
Is axis editing on the Desktop Specialist exam?
Formatting, including axes, falls under Sharing Insights. Try the Desktop Foundations practice test, our Desktop Specialist practice questions, or the Desktop Foundations (Desktop Specialist) study guide.