What creates the columns in a matrix search?

The creation of columns in a matrix search is achieved through CASE expressions that evaluate target field values. In a matrix search, you are typically dealing with a comprehensive view of the data where different dimensions and metrics can be analyzed simultaneously. The CASE expressions allow you to define specific criteria for how data should be categorized or displayed based on the values of certain fields.

For instance, you can use CASE expressions to create conditional columns based on sales amounts, allowing you to categorize sales into different tiers (e.g., low, medium, high) based on defined thresholds. This method offers flexibility and customizability in how results are presented within the matrix format.

Other options might involve processes that contribute to data manipulation or retrieval but do not directly create the columns featured in a matrix search. For example, aggregation functions summarize or consolidate results, loops may iterate through data but do not define columns themselves, and data from external sources can enrich datasets but does not inherently dictate the structure of the report columns.