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What is a data type and how to change it?

Every column within each dataset you import is of a specific type. The data types (or column types) can be found in the data view of your datasets. Each column can fall into one of these categories:

How to change a data type?

Distinguishing between your column types is important as every type has its own SQL query. Certain column types also have their own limitations when it comes to layer styling — for example, styling your map layer using our range styling requires number columns. To change a column’s type you must do the following:

Change data type in dataset

Click the OPTIONS button next to your dataset and select VIEW DATASET from the dropdown menu.

Change data type from number to string

Click the arrow next to the data type. A dropdown menu will appear; select the data type you'd like to change your column to. Confirm your changes.

Quick note! Postal code data strings:
Postal code datasets have a string (text) type instead of a number type. This has many reasons, including the fact that postal codes starting with a 0 are imported correctly. For more information and an effective workaround, please read our article on importing postal codes that start with a 0.

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