Excel graphs and charts are visual representations of data that help users analyze, compare, and communicate information effectively. By converting raw data into visual formats such as bar charts, pie charts, line charts, and surface graphs, Excel makes it easier to identify trends, patterns, and insights at a glance.
Top Uses of Charts and Graphs in Excel
Charts and graphs in Excel offer several advantages:
- Data Visualization: Transform raw data into visually appealing graphics.
- Comparison: Easily compare different datasets.
- Trend Analysis: Identify trends and patterns over time.
- Clarity: Make data insights more accessible and understandable..
Creating a Graph in Excel
Create a graph by selecting data and choosing a chart type from the Insert tab. Below is a step-by-step process creating a graph in Excel:
Step 1: Prepare your Dataset
Enter your data in an Excel sheet (e.g., sales data for courses from Jan to Mar in A1:D4).
Step 2: Select the Dataset
Select the entered dataset by drag and drop or by CTRL + A.
Step 3: Go to Insert and Select Recommended Charts
Go the Insert Tab and in the dropdown select chart of your choice from the Recommended Charts. You can click on All charts option if can not find your desired chart.
There are various types of charts recommended by Excel. You can preview the chart before applying it. Select the chart or graph that you desire and click on OK. These types of charts are discussed below.
Type of Charts in MS Excel
Excel provides several charts or graphs that we can use to visualize and analyze the data in different scenarios. Usually, we are required to choose the chart type depending on the data we are required to analyze.
Chart Type | When To Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Bar Chart |
|  |
| Pie Chart |
|  |
| Column Chart |
|  |
| Line Chart |
|  |
| Combo Chart |
|  |
| Surface Chart |
|  |
To give you insights of how to create charts or graphs in excel we are using Surface chart as an example showing you the step by step procedure.
How to Create Surface Graph in MS Excel
Follow the steps to create Surface Graph in Excel:
Step 1: Highlight the Dataset
Select the dataset for which you want to draw the graph.
Step 2: Go to Insert and Select All Charts
Access the Insert tab and from the drop down click on All Charts option.
Step 3: Click on Surface Chart
Select the option of surface chart from the given graph options and click on OK.
How to Create Histogram in Excel
Follow the Steps to create Histogram in Excel:
Step 1: Highlight the Dataset
Select the dataset for which you want to draw the graph.
Step 2: Go to Insert and Select All Charts
Access the Insert tab and from the drop down click on All Charts option.
Step 3: Click on Histogram
Select the option of surface chart from the given graph options and click on OK.
After we insert the chart, Excel will automatically prepare the chart according to the dataset and insert it into the sheet. In the similar fashion you can easily insert any graph of your choice.
How to Format and Customize Your Excel Graphs
Formating the chart will enhance our chart or graph and also provide information that will help to analyze the chart easily. You can format or customize chart by adding titles, axis, labels, etc.
Here we are showing process of adding title and axis.
1. Adding Chart Title
Follow the steps given below to add chart title in Excel.
Step 1: Select the Inserted Chart
Step 2: Add Title
Add title to the chart by double-clicking on the Chart Title view and, add whatever title you want.
2. Adding Axis
Follow the steps given below to add axis in Excel.
Step 1: Select the Inserted Chart.
Step 2: Click on the plus(+) button beside the chart.
Step 3: Check the axis titles checkbox, and add the axis name.
3. Switching Row/Column
To rearrange the data presentation, you can switch the row and column layout of your chart. This can be particularly useful when you want to display data series or categories differently.
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4. Legend Position
The legend position provides valuable information about the data series in your chart. You can customize the legend's position to enhance chart clarity and presentation.
To move the legend to the right side of the chart, click the "+" button on the right side of the chart, choose "Legend", and then select "Right".
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5. Data Labels
Data labels draw attention to specific data points or series on your chart. By adding data labels, you can provide context and emphasize crucial data points.
To add data labels, select the chart, click on the data series or point you want to label, and then click the "+" button. Check the "Data Labels" option to display the labels.
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How to Change Chart Type
Excel gives you the feature to change the type of chart or graph after creating. Follow the below steps to change the chart type in Excel:
Step 1: Select the chart
Click on the chart or graph you want to modify to select it. When the chart is selected, you will see handles or bounding boxes around it, indicating that it's active.
Step 2: Select the "Change Chart Type" Option
Navigate to the "Chart Design" tab in the Excel ribbon. In the "Type" group, click the "Change Chart Type" button to open a gallery of available chart types.
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Step 3: Choose a new Chart type
Browse through the chart-type options in the gallery and select the one that suits your needs. For example, if you want to switch to pie chart, click on Pie chart.
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Step 4: Confirm the Change
After selecting the change you require, click "OK" to apply the change. Your chart will be instantly updated with the new chart type, providing useful when you want to display that series or categories differently.