Phase 1: Building the Conditional Set

If you need a list that updates automatically as your data changes, then you should create a set based on a condition rather than a static selection.

• Action: In the Data pane, right-click your dimension (e.g., Fruit) and select Create > Set.

• Implementation: Go to the Top tab, select By Field, and set the parameters to Top 3 based on Sum of Sales.

• Result: Tableau creates a dynamic "In/Out" bucket that evaluates every record against this logic.

Phase 2: Visualizing In/Out Membership

Because sets are Boolean tests (True/False), you should decide whether to show the individual members or simply indicate membership.

• Logic: Drag the set to the Rows shelf. By default, Tableau will show "In" or "Out".

• Customization: To make the view more user-friendly, right-click the "In" header, select Edit Alias, and rename it to something descriptive like "Top 3".

• Technical Tip: You can toggle the pill on the shelf to either Show members in the set or Show in/out of the set depending on the level of detail required.

Phase 3: Driving Visuals with Sets

To highlight top performers without filtering out the rest of the data, utilize your set on the Color tile.

• Action: Create a new worksheet and drag Fruit to Rows and Sales to Columns.

• Implementation: Drag your "Fruit Top 3 Sales" set onto the Color tile.

• Result: This creates a clear visual distinction where the top three fruits are highlighted in one color while all others remain in a secondary color.

• Automation: Because this is a conditional set, it is dynamic. If the data updates and "Plums" overtake "Apples" in sales, the highlighting will shift automatically without any manual adjustment.