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How to Add Date Range Comparison Indicators in Looker Studio

Writer's picture: Sotirios SeridisSotirios Seridis

One of the most frequently asked questions we get about Looker Studio reporting is "How do we get these comparisons under my scorecards?". In case you're unsure, in Looker Studio, the date range comparisons show up in the small arrow indicator along with the percentages. This quick and easy guide will show you how to add date range comparison indicators in Looker Studio!









How to add date range comparison indicators in Looker Studio


  1. Select the Element you would like to apply comparison indicators on (for example scorecard, table or chart)

  2. Navigate to the "SET-UP" column (right-hand-side)

  3. Scroll down to "Comparison data range"

  4. Select your Comparison date range and click on "APPLY"





Frequently asked questions about date range comparison indicators in Looker Studio


What is "Previous Period" comparison in Looker Studio?


When you choose "Previous Period," Looker Studio compares your current timeframe with the same length of time right before it.


Here's how it works:

  • If you select "this month," it compares with last month

  • If you select "this quarter," it compares with last quarter

  • If you select June 1-7, it compares with May 25-31

  • The comparison automatically adjusts based on whatever timeframe you choose



What comparison options are available besides "Previous Period"?


You have three alternatives:


  1. Fixed Date Range: You pick specific dates to compare against. These dates stay the same no matter what current timeframe you select

  2. Previous Year: Automatically compares to the same period last year

  3. Advanced: You can compare versus selected time intervals: Days, Weeks, Months, Quarters etc.




Can I compare two custom date ranges dynamically?


No, Looker Studio doesn't currently support comparing two freely chosen date ranges at the same time. You're limited to using:

  • Previous period

  • Previous year

  • A fixed comparison period you set up




Can report viewers change comparison settings?


No, only report editors can set up date comparisons. Viewers can:

  • Change the current date range

  • View the comparison data

  • But cannot modify how the comparison works




What happens to comparisons during holidays or special events?


The comparison will include whatever data exists in the previous period, regardless of holidays or events. This means:

  • You might need to account for holidays when analyzing differences

  • Special events in either period could affect your comparisons

  • Consider using fixed date ranges to exclude unusual periods




How are partial days handled in comparisons?


When comparing periods that include the current day:

  • The current period shows real-time data up to the current moment

  • The comparison period shows full-day data

  • This means today's metrics might appear lower than the comparison

  • For most accurate comparisons, compare complete days only





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