If you use Microsoft Excel regularly for work or study, you know that deciphering spreadsheets filled with data can be a challenge. Graphs offer a powerful solution by visually representing your data, making it easier to understand and interpret, even for those unfamiliar with analytical information. Let’s dive into how to create graphs in Microsoft Excel.
Step 1: Prepare your Data
Begin by organizing your data into the Excel spreadsheet. Each column should have a clear title. Don’t worry if you make a mistake with the column order; you can easily adjust it by adding or reordering columns. For demonstration purposes, our example will use a sample dataset.
Step 2: Select your Data
Next, select the cells containing the data you want to include in your graph. Make sure you’ve selected all the relevant cells before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Choose a Graph Template
Microsoft Excel provides a convenient selection of graph templates. Click the ‘Insert’ tab and then choose ‘Recommended Charts’. Browse the templates and pick the one that best suits your data. Click ‘OK’ to proceed.
Step 4: Customize your Graph
Now you can personalize your graph! Double-click the ‘Chart Title’ to change the title, adjust the graph’s size, modify its colors, and explore other customization options. You can also experiment with the data in your table and see how those changes affect the graph. If you need to keep certain values unchanged, you can learn how to lock cells in Excel to prevent accidental modifications.
Further customization is available through icons that appear next to your selected graph:
*
Plus-sign Icon:
Add or remove elements like labels, legends, and more.*
Paintbrush Icon:
Change the color scheme and styling of your graph.*
Filter Icon:
Select which specific data you want to showcase in your chart.Step 5: Explore All Graph Types
For a comprehensive list of all available graph types, click the ‘All Charts’ tab within the ‘Recommended Charts’ window. Explore options like bar charts and line charts, each offering various designs (3D, Clustered, Stacked, and more).
Step 6: Changing Graph Type After Creation
If you want to change the graph type after initially selecting one, simply choose the ‘Chart Design’ tab from the ribbon at the top of your screen and click the ‘Change Chart Type’ button. The ‘Chart Design’ tab usually appears once your current chart is selected, so ensure you’ve chosen your graph before proceeding.
Step 7: Quick Access to Graph Types
You can also access a selection of graph types directly on the ‘Insert’ tab. Click the drop-down arrow next to each chart icon and hover over a thumbnail within the menu. This provides a preview of how your chart will look with that specific design.
Creating graphs in Microsoft Excel is a straightforward process. In fact, the simplicity of this feature is one reason why many other spreadsheet apps have replicated it. Whether you’re using Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets, you now have the power to effectively visualize your data and present it in a clear and engaging way.
