---
title: FIRSTNONBLANK
description: Learn how to use the FIRSTNONBLANK function to retrieve the first non-empty value from your dataset. Applicable to calculated columns and useful for efficient data extraction.
---
import { Aside, Steps } from '@astrojs/starlight/components';

# FIRSTNONBLANK

The FIRSTNONBLANK function in Infoveave retrieves the first non-blank (non-empty) value within a specified dataset or column, filtered by the current context.

## Applicable to

* Calculated Columns
* Expressions

## Return Value

The first non-blank value encountered within the dataset or column.

## Remark

* Useful for quickly identifying and extracting the first meaningful data from a list or dataset.
* Can be used across Dates, Strings, and Numbers.

## Syntax

```
FIRSTNONBLANK(<expression>)
```

## FIRSTNONBLANK in Board Expression

<Aside>
Expressions add visual effects to your dashboard through widget-specific conditions. They do not manage or modify data.
</Aside>

| Parameter  | Description                                                                                                  |
|------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Expression | A placeholder in a function replaced with the actual widget and measure names.                               |
| Widget Name| The specific name or identifier of the widget used for data visualization in the Infoboard.                  |
| Measure    | The name of the measure displayed or analyzed using the widget.                                              |

Steps to Use FIRSTNONBLANK

<Steps>
1. Write the FIRSTNONBLANK function. For instance `FIRSTNONBLANK(<expression>)`
2. Replace `<expression>` with `'Widget Name'[Measure]`. Replace **Widget Name** with your widget's name and **Measure** with the corresponding measure name.
3. To learn how to configure an Expression in Infoveave, visit the section [Configure Expression](/insights-v8/advanced-configuration/#configuring-expressions).
</Steps>

## FIRSTNONBLANK in Calculated Columns

| Parameter   | Description                                                                                   |
|-------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Expression  | A placeholder in a function replaced with the column names.                                   |
| Column Name | The name of the column in the dataset or Datasource containing the values you want to analyze.|

Steps to use FIRSTNONBLANK in Calculated Columns

<Steps>
1. Write the FIRSTNONBLANK function. For instance `FIRSTNONBLANK(<expression>)`
2. Replace `<expression>` with `[Column Name]`. Replace **Column Name** with the actual column name.
3. To learn how to add calculated columns in Infoveave, visit the section [Calculated Columns](/studio-v8/datasources/calculated-columns-datasource/).
</Steps>