# Power BI: Build data models and create reports Review (2026) — 8.5/10 > Independent review of Power BI: Build data models and create reports on EDX. Rated 8.5/10 by our editorial team. Pros, cons, price, and top alternatives. Fre… Power BI: Build data models and create reports ![Power BI: Build data models and create reports](/api/media/file/hero/power-bi-build-data-models-reports-course.jpg?width=800) # Power BI: Build data models and create reports Course — Review (8.5/10) This course delivers a solid foundation in Power BI, focusing on practical skills like data modeling and report creation. The content is well-structured but assumes some familiarity with data concepts... Explore This Course Power BI: Build data models and create reports is a 2 weeks online beginner-level course on EDX by Microsoft that covers data analytics. This course delivers a solid foundation in Power BI, focusing on practical skills like data modeling and report creation. The content is well-structured but assumes some familiarity with data concepts. While free to audit, advanced features and certification require payment. Ideal for beginners seeking hands-on experience with Microsoft’s analytics tool. We rate it 8.5/10. ## Prerequisites No prior experience required. This course is designed for complete beginners in data analytics. ## Pros - Comprehensive introduction to Power BI tools and workflows - Hands-on focus on building real-world data models - Teaches essential DAX skills for dynamic calculations - Highly applicable for business intelligence and reporting roles ## Cons - Limited depth in advanced DAX and performance tuning - Certificate requires paid upgrade - Fast pace may challenge absolute beginners ## Power BI: Build data models and create reports Course Review Platform: EDX Instructor: Microsoft Updated Apr 26, 2026·Editorial Standards·How We Rate ## What will you learn in Power BI: Build data models and create reports course - Connect to various data sources - Structure data for analysis - Design interactive reports - Visualize and present findings - Create relationships between tables - Optimize data structures - Define calculations using DAX - Design visually appealing dashboards ### Program Overview ### Module 1: Connecting and Preparing Data Duration estimate: 3 days - Connecting to Excel and CSV files - Importing from databases and cloud sources - Basic data cleaning and transformation ### Module 2: Data Modeling Fundamentals Duration: 4 days - Understanding star schema design - Creating relationships between tables - Normalizing and denormalizing data ### Module 3: Building Reports and Visualizations Duration: 5 days - Choosing the right chart types - Designing interactive report layouts - Using filters and slicers effectively ### Module 4: Advanced Calculations and Dashboards Duration: 4 days - Writing DAX expressions - Creating calculated columns and measures - Designing responsive dashboards ### Get certificate #### Job Outlook - Demand for Power BI skills is rising in business intelligence roles - Data analysts and reporting specialists benefit from certification - Power BI proficiency enhances career growth in data-driven organizations ## Editorial Take This course from Microsoft via edX offers a focused pathway into Power BI, one of the most in-demand tools in modern data analytics. Designed for beginners, it delivers foundational knowledge in data modeling, report creation, and visualization using Microsoft’s powerful platform. ### Standout Strengths - Industry-Aligned Curriculum: The course teaches skills directly applicable to business intelligence roles. Learners gain hands-on experience with Power BI’s core functionalities as used in real organizations. - Structured Learning Path: Modules progress logically from data ingestion to dashboard publishing. This step-by-step approach helps learners build confidence and competence in a short timeframe. - Focus on DAX Fundamentals: DAX is a critical skill for Power BI users. The course introduces key concepts like calculated columns, measures, and time intelligence functions effectively. - Interactive Report Design: Learners practice creating engaging visualizations using filters, slicers, and layout tools. This enhances their ability to communicate insights clearly to stakeholders. - Free Access Model: The audit option allows learners to explore Power BI without financial commitment. This lowers the barrier to entry for aspiring data professionals. - Microsoft Backing: Being developed by Microsoft adds credibility and ensures alignment with current tool capabilities and best practices in the ecosystem. ### Honest Limitations - No Real-Time Collaboration Practice: The course does not cover team workflows, shared workspaces, or deployment pipelines. These are important in enterprise environments but omitted here. - Assumes Basic Data Literacy: Concepts like primary keys and relationships are used without deep explanation. Absolute beginners may struggle without prior exposure to databases. - Limited Project-Based Assessment: There is minimal emphasis on end-to-end projects. Learners miss opportunities to apply all skills in a unified, realistic scenario. ### How to Get the Most Out of It - Study cadence: Dedicate 1–2 hours daily over two weeks to complete modules. Consistent pacing ensures better retention and hands-on practice with Power BI tools. - Parallel project: Apply concepts immediately by building a personal dashboard using public datasets. This reinforces learning through active implementation. - Note-taking: Document DAX formulas and modeling decisions. A personal reference log aids in long-term recall and troubleshooting during future projects. - Community: Join Power BI forums and edX discussion boards. Engaging with peers helps solve problems and exposes learners to diverse use cases. - Practice: Rebuild reports multiple times with different visual types. Iterative design improves understanding of what works best for specific data stories. - Consistency: Stick to a schedule even if progress feels slow. Regular interaction with the tool builds muscle memory and confidence in navigation. ### Supplementary Resources - Book: 'Mastering Power BI' by Brett Powell offers deeper dives into DAX and performance optimization. It complements the course well for self-learners. - Tool: Use Power BI Desktop (free) alongside the course. Practical experimentation enhances understanding beyond video lectures and quizzes. - Follow-up: Explore Microsoft Learn’s Power BI paths for role-based learning. These build directly on this course’s foundation. - Reference: Bookmark DAX Guide (dax.guide) for quick syntax lookup. It's an essential companion when writing and debugging expressions. ### Common Pitfalls - Pitfall: Overcomplicating dashboards early on. Focus on clarity and usability before adding advanced interactivity to avoid cluttered designs. - Pitfall: Misunderstanding filter context in DAX. Many learners struggle with row vs. filter context—practice with simple examples first. - Pitfall: Ignoring data model performance. Poor relationships or unnecessary columns can slow reports; always review model efficiency. ### Time & Money ROI - Time: Two weeks is sufficient for core concepts, but real proficiency requires additional hands-on practice beyond the course duration. - Cost-to-value: Free audit access provides excellent value for foundational learning. The cost is justified even if only core skills are retained. - Certificate: The verified certificate has moderate career value, especially when paired with a portfolio of sample reports. - Alternative: Free YouTube tutorials exist, but this structured course offers a more reliable and comprehensive learning path. ### Editorial Verdict This Power BI course successfully bridges the gap between novice users and functional data analysts. It delivers a well-paced, practical curriculum that emphasizes real-world skills like connecting to data sources, designing models, and creating visualizations. The inclusion of DAX and dashboard design ensures learners walk away with tangible abilities relevant to business intelligence roles. While the course doesn’t dive into advanced administration or enterprise deployment, its focus on core competencies makes it ideal for beginners looking to enter the field or professionals aiming to enhance their reporting capabilities. We recommend this course for anyone seeking a credible, structured introduction to Power BI without upfront costs. The free audit option removes financial risk, while the content provides a strong foundation for further learning. To maximize value, learners should supplement with personal projects and community engagement. Overall, it’s a high-quality offering from Microsoft that delivers on its promises and sets a solid baseline for data analytics careers. ## How Power BI: Build data models and create reports Compares | Course | Platform | Rating | Level | Duration | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Power BI: Build data models and create reports | EDX | 8.5/10 | Beginner | 2 weeks | | Snowflake for Data Engineers: Architecture & Performance Course | Udemy | 9.8/10 | N/A | N/A | | Data Analytics with R Programming Certification Training Course | Edureka | 9.7/10 | N/A | N/A | | Data Visualization and Analysis With Seaborn Library Course | Educative | 9.7/10 | N/A | N/A | ## Who Should Take Power BI: Build data models and create reports? This course is best suited for learners with no prior experience in data analytics. It is designed for career changers, fresh graduates, and self-taught learners looking for a structured introduction. The course is offered by Microsoft on EDX, combining institutional credibility with the flexibility of online learning. Upon completion, you will receive a verified certificate that you can add to your LinkedIn profile and resume, signaling your verified skills to potential employers. If you are exploring adjacent fields, you might also consider courses in Agile & Scrum Courses, AI Courses, Arts and Humanities Courses, which complement the skills covered in this course. ### Career Outcomes - Apply data analytics skills to real-world projects and job responsibilities - Qualify for entry-level positions in data analytics and related fields - Build a portfolio of skills to present to potential employers - Add a verified certificate credential to your LinkedIn and resume - Continue learning with advanced courses and specializations in the field ## More Data Analytics Courses on EDX Explore other highly rated courses in data analytics available on EDX to expand your learning path: - PredictionX course 9.7/10 - Try It: Introduction to Google Analytics Course 8.5/10 - The Analytics Edge 8.5/10 - Practical Learning Analytics Course 8.5/10 - Data Analytics for Business Course 8.5/10 - Data, Models and Decisions in Business Analytics Course 8.5/10 - Statistics for Business Analytics: Modelling and Forecasting Course 8.5/10 - Demand and Supply Analytics Course 8.5/10 - Principles of Analytics Course 8.5/10 - Google Sheets - Advanced Topics Course 8.5/10 ## Top Alternatives on Other Platforms Looking for a different teaching style or approach? These top-rated data analytics courses from other platforms cover similar ground: - Snowflake for Data Engineers: Architecture & Performance Course 9.8/10 Udemy - Data Analytics with R Programming Certification Training Course 9.7/10 Edureka - Data Visualization and Analysis With Seaborn Library Course 9.7/10 Educative - Data Visualization with Tableau Specialization Course 9.7/10 Coursera - API Analytics for Product Managers Course 9.6/10 Educative - Statistics Essentials for Analytics Course 9.6/10 Edureka - Accelerate Your Career in DATA: 2026 Job Seekers Playbook 9.5/10 Udemy - Data Vault: An Introduction Course 9.5/10 Udemy - The Complete Data Visualization & Storytelling Bootcamp Course 9.5/10 Udemy - MICROSOFT POWER BI: Power BI Certification in 1 Hour Course 9.5/10 Udemy ## More Courses from Microsoft Microsoft offers a range of courses across multiple disciplines. If you enjoy their teaching approach, consider these additional offerings: - Microsoft Front-End Developer Professional Certificate Course 9.9/10 - Microsoft Program Management Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 - Microsoft UX Design Professional Certificate Course 9.8/10 - AI And Machine Learning Algorithms And Techniques Course 9.7/10 - Microsoft Data Visualization Professional Certificate Course 9.7/10 - Microsoft Project Management Professional Certificate Course 9.7/10 - Microsoft Back-End Developer Professional Certificate Course 9.7/10 - Introduction to Computers and Operating Systems and Security 9.7/10 View all courses from Microsoft → ## Related Articles & Guides Deepen your understanding with these articles from our editorial team, covering career advice, industry trends, and learning strategies: - Build AI skills with the Google AI Professional Certificate - Python Tutorial: Best Courses to Learn Python in 2026 - CISSP vs CompTIA Security+: Which Cert Should You Pursue? - Coursera Data Analytics Professional Certificate: Worth It in 2026? - Best edX Courses in 2026: Top Picks by Enrollment and Career Value - Best Online Coursera Courses in 2026: What's Actually Worth Your Time - Udemy Online: What the Platform Actually Delivers in 2026 - OKR for Leaders: 7 Best Training Courses Compared (2026) - Generative AI for Marketing with Microsoft 365 Copilot: Professional Certificate Review - The Best React Courses in 2026, Ranked and Reviewed ## Explore All Course Categories Not sure what to learn next? 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Be the first to share your experience! ## FAQs What are the prerequisites for Power BI: Build data models and create reports? No prior experience is required. Power BI: Build data models and create reports is designed for complete beginners who want to build a solid foundation in Data Analytics. It starts from the fundamentals and gradually introduces more advanced concepts, making it accessible for career changers, students, and self-taught learners. Does Power BI: Build data models and create reports offer a certificate upon completion? Yes, upon successful completion you receive a verified certificate from Microsoft. This credential can be added to your LinkedIn profile and resume, demonstrating verified skills to employers. In competitive job markets, having a recognized certificate in Data Analytics can help differentiate your application and signal your commitment to professional development. How long does it take to complete Power BI: Build data models and create reports? The course takes approximately 2 weeks to complete. It is offered as a free to audit course on EDX, which means you can learn at your own pace and fit it around your schedule. The content is delivered in English and includes a mix of instructional material, practical exercises, and assessments to reinforce your understanding. Most learners find that dedicating a few hours per week allows them to complete the course comfortably. What are the main strengths and limitations of Power BI: Build data models and create reports? Power BI: Build data models and create reports is rated 8.5/10 on our platform. Key strengths include: comprehensive introduction to power bi tools and workflows; hands-on focus on building real-world data models; teaches essential dax skills for dynamic calculations. Some limitations to consider: limited depth in advanced dax and performance tuning; certificate requires paid upgrade. Overall, it provides a strong learning experience for anyone looking to build skills in Data Analytics. How will Power BI: Build data models and create reports help my career? Completing Power BI: Build data models and create reports equips you with practical Data Analytics skills that employers actively seek. The course is developed by Microsoft, whose name carries weight in the industry. The skills covered are applicable to roles across multiple industries, from technology companies to consulting firms and startups. Whether you are looking to transition into a new role, earn a promotion in your current position, or simply broaden your professional skillset, the knowledge gained from this course provides a tangible competitive advantage in the job market. Where can I take Power BI: Build data models and create reports and how do I access it? Power BI: Build data models and create reports is available on EDX, one of the leading online learning platforms. You can access the course material from any device with an internet connection — desktop, tablet, or mobile. The course is free to audit, giving you the flexibility to learn at a pace that suits your schedule. All you need is to create an account on EDX and enroll in the course to get started. How does Power BI: Build data models and create reports compare to other Data Analytics courses? Power BI: Build data models and create reports is rated 8.5/10 on our platform, placing it among the top-rated data analytics courses. Its standout strengths — comprehensive introduction to power bi tools and workflows — set it apart from alternatives. What differentiates each course is its teaching approach, depth of coverage, and the credentials of the instructor or institution behind it. We recommend comparing the syllabus, student reviews, and certificate value before deciding. What language is Power BI: Build data models and create reports taught in? Power BI: Build data models and create reports is taught in English. Many online courses on EDX also offer auto-generated subtitles or community-contributed translations in other languages, making the content accessible to non-native speakers. The course material is designed to be clear and accessible regardless of your language background, with visual aids and practical demonstrations supplementing the spoken instruction. Is Power BI: Build data models and create reports kept up to date? Online courses on EDX are periodically updated by their instructors to reflect industry changes and new best practices. Microsoft has a track record of maintaining their course content to stay relevant. We recommend checking the "last updated" date on the enrollment page. Our own review was last verified recently, and we re-evaluate courses when significant updates are made to ensure our rating remains accurate. Can I take Power BI: Build data models and create reports as part of a team or organization? Yes, EDX offers team and enterprise plans that allow organizations to enroll multiple employees in courses like Power BI: Build data models and create reports. Team plans often include progress tracking, dedicated support, and volume discounts. This makes it an effective option for corporate training programs, upskilling initiatives, or academic cohorts looking to build data analytics capabilities across a group. What will I be able to do after completing Power BI: Build data models and create reports? After completing Power BI: Build data models and create reports, you will have practical skills in data analytics that you can apply to real projects and job responsibilities. You will be prepared to pursue more advanced courses or specializations in the field. 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