Error "TableauSQL.1" is not valid in the context where it is used." When Using Custom SQL

Issue

When using Custom SQL, an error similar to the following may occur:

"TableauSQL.1" is not valid in the context where it is used. "

Environment

Tableau Desktop
Custom SQL

Resolution

The aggregated columns must be aliased. See the below section, for more information.

Cause

In Tableau, custom SQL query are sent as a sub-query against the database. Because the inner table is derived, all table names and aggregations need to be aliased as well.

For example, if the below was our custom sql:

SELECT count(*) AS "a" 
FROM Table1

The following would be sent to the database:

SELECT "TableauSQL"."a" AS "a" 
FROM ( 
  select count(*) AS "a" from Table1
) "TableauSQL"

If the column is not aliased:

SELECT count(*)
FROM Table1

An error similar to the following will occur: "TableauSQL.1" is not valid in the context where it is used."

Additional Information

Discuss this article... Feedback Forum

Click here to return to our Support page.

Open a new case

Click here to go to our Support page.

Get detailed answers and how-to step-by-step instructions for your issues and technical questions.

Find and share solutions with our active community through forums, user groups and ideas.

Browse a complete list of product manuals and guides. Available online, offline and PDF formats.

Learn how to master Tableau’s products with our on-demand, live or class room training.