Define multi-column sort in Dataflow Gen2 with a single dialog box

The custom sort feature in Dataflow Gen2 lets you define multi-column sort precedence within a single dialog box. This makes it easier to organize data with more than one sorting level without applying separate steps.

Use cases

Imagine you have a competition table with category and position columns, and you need to sort the data first by competition and then by position in ascending order. With this feature, you can:

• Define multiple sorting levels all at once.
• Reorder level priority visually.
• Quickly adjust existing rules using the applied steps pane.

How to use

In the Dataflow Gen2 editor, go to the Home tab, find the Sort group, and select Sort to open the sort dialog box.

1. On the Home tab, select the Sort group.
2. Click Sort to open the configuration window.
3. Add column levels and set the direction (Ascending or Descending).
4. Click OK to apply.

What happens in this code:

1. The dialog window displays current sort levels in a grid.
2. The system applies cascading sorting based on the defined column priority.
3. Power Query adds a numeric indicator next to each sorted column header.

Limitations and requirements

• This feature is in Public Preview.
• Each column can only be used in one sort level at a time.
• Every level requires both a column and a sort order selection before confirming.