# Use filters to refine data shown within your widgets

Learn how to use filters to show specific data within your visualizations and communicate your metrics clearly.

Updated over 3 weeks ago

A well-designed dashboard makes key metrics easy to understand at a glance, helping viewers quickly interpret data and take action. Cluttered or confusing dashboards can lead to misinterpretation, delays, or missed insights. By carefully [planning what to display](https://support.geckoboard.com/en/articles/10306664-planning-your-dashboard-design-and-layout)— **and what to filter out**—you create a clear, focused view that supports better decisions as you work toward your goals.

To refine the data shown within a widget, edit an existing widget or add a new one, then **click Filter** within the configuration panel. The types of filters available will depend on the data source in use.

## Example of how to apply filters using Zendesk Support

In this example, we’ll create a Zendesk Support widget that displays the number of Unsolved tickets and use a filter to display data for a specific customer type.

1. **Edit** an existing widget or **add a new widget** to your dashboard.

2. In the widget preset panel, **set the Display field** to your desired metric.

1. For this example, we’re using **Unsolved tickets**.

3. **Click Filter** to open and display all available filter options.

1. For our example, we’ll select **Customer Type**.

1. Set the operator to **_is_**.

2. Then, in the Select field, choose **VIP Customer**.

3. Then click **Apply**.

2. You can do the same for any filter you want to apply.

4. Make any other adjustments needed and click **Save** or **Add to dashboard**.