Charts are incredibly useful. They allow us to showcase information in a more meaningful manner. There are many people that even have a job that involves building charts and graphs. If you are interested in visualizing data, you have no better option than to create a chart. As there are many different software applications that allow you to create a chart, it can be difficult to decide which application to use. However, if there is one tool that is extremely useful, it is Microsoft Excel. It allows us to make a chart in minimal time.
When it comes to making a chart, many people tend to feel overwhelmed and get stressed out by the idea of having to create a chart. But, there is no need to worry as it is very easy to create a chart. Besides, it does not take a lot of time. You can simply get done within a few minutes. The more data you work with, the longer it would take to complete the chart. In all cases, Microsoft Excel makes everything a whole lot easier. Regardless of which career you might have, the need for Microsoft Excel is bound to appear.
This guide will teach you about how to make a chart in Excel. By the time you finished reading it, you will know what to do. The fact is that organizing a spreadsheet that contains all of the data is incredibly important. All you need is a bit of motivation to get started. Once you have created a chart, you will have no trouble making another one when needed. It is encouraged that you follow the instructions below to make your very own chart in Excel. The instructions apply for all versions of Excel. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started.
Create a Chart from the Beginning towards the End
- Choose the Data for the Chart
The first thing that you need to do is select all the data that you want for the chart. To do this, you need to left click and move the cursor over the data needs to be in the chart. It is very simple and takes a second.
- Click Insert > Recommended Charts
Next, you just have to click on Insert and then, browse through the options until you find Recommended Charts. Click on Recommended Charts to proceed.
- Choose a Chart from the Recommended Charts
Once you have clicked on Recommended Charts, you need to go through different charts to find the one you like. You can preview different charts to decide which chart you like. As there are plenty of charts, you should feel free to test each chart to find out which one suits you best. Generally, simple charts do a great job in displaying information in a positive manner.
Keep in mind that it is possible to select the data that you would like in the chart by simply pressing on Alt + F1. It will help create the chart immediately. However, it might not prove to be the best chart for the data. Now, if you do not like the chart, you can select All Charts tab to go through all your options. It is pretty simple.
- Choose a Chart
After you have tested different charts, you can choose the one that is appropriate. This step it easy and you can move forward with creating the chart quickly.
- Click Ok
Finally, all you have to do is click Ok. That is about it. You have created a chart that displays all the desired information in the best way possible.
Add a Trend Line
If you want to add a trend line, you can also do that by following the tips mentioned below.
- Choose a Chart
To add a trend line, you need to select a chart.
- Click Design > Add Chart Element
Next, you just need to click on Design and then, click on Chart Element.
- Click Trend Line
Finally, you only have to click on Trend Line. Choose the Trend Line of your choice. Your options include Moving Average, Linear Forecast, Exponential, and Linear.
Types of Excel Charts
When you use Excel for charts, you will come across different types of charts as mentioned below.
- Line Chart
The most basic type of chart on Excel is the Line Chart. It is also the most frequently used chart type. It is normally used for showing trends over a defined period of time. If you require a chart that changes with the change in data, a line chart is just what you need.
- Column Chart
Another type of chart that is commonly used is the Column Chart. It is useful when comparing different items in a specific range. If you require a chart for comparing a single category of data, Column Charts are the way to go.
- Clustered Column Chart
In addition to the above, you can also use a Clustered Column Chart. It is perfect for comparison of multiple categories of data. For example, you can use it for comparing revenue within different regions for each year. This would allow you to better understand how each region is performing.
- Stacked Column Chart
Comparing items in a specific range of values is a lot easier using a stacked column chart. It helps establish a relationship between each individual sub-item. Not only do you get to see the overall picture, but also what it is made up of.
- Pie Chart
Pie charts are extremely popular and for a good reason. They help represent information in the best way possible. You can use one to effectively plot over three categories of data.
- Bar Chart
Finally, you can also use a Bar Chart to compared different categories of data. It is ideal in a situation where you need to visualize the distribution of various data items.
Conclusion
Now that you have read our guide, you can start creating a chart in Excel. It should not take a lot of time.