How to Make a 3-D Graph in Excel

Microsoft includes the Excel application in Office 2007 Ultimate edition.

The accurate visual representation of data in Microsoft Excel is one of the most important aspects of any graph, whether it is rendered in two or three dimensions. However, if you are making a live presentation or creating a document for end users, you can enhance the look of a graph using 3-D effects. For example, a 2-D bar graph commonly shows a basic comparison of data, but in 3-D you can offer the audience greater depth perception. Before you create your 3-D graph, you can make sure that the basic worksheet elements are in place to get the graph to display effectively and properly.

Instructions

1. Fill in your preliminary data in the Excel worksheet that is to show as a 3-D graph. For example, a business might make a vertical bar graph that compares revenue and expenses, from year to year. Input the following years in each cell address, respectively: "B1" = "2008"; "C1" = "2009." Type "Revenue" and "Expenses" in cells "A2" and "A3," respectively; cell "A1" is intentionally left blank. Add dollar figures in the blank cells under each year: Revenue for each year was "1,000" and "2,000," and expenses were "800" and "1,400," respectively.

2. Click once to highlight and hold the cursor down on cell "A1." Drag the cursor around all other cells that have data that will be reflected in the graph. This group of cells are now highlighted with a grayish-blue background with solid bold outlining. Using the business example, be sure to include the yearly headings above the dollar figures, and the revenue and expense categories.

3. Click on the "Insert" tab at the top of Excel. Hover the cursor over a chart type, such as "Column," "Line" or "Pie" chart. A brief description will show under each chart type as you hover. After you have made a decision, select the down arrow under a chart type to reveal a menu.

4. Hover the cursor over the options under the "3-D" section of the drop-down menu for a chart type. Review each description. Click on an option after you have made a decision. Excel automatically adds the graph on top of your worksheet. For the business example, click the first option under the "3-D Column" section for the "Column" chart type. This type of graph is called "3-D Clustered Column," and it displays values across categories, such as revenue vs. expenses, year over year.

5. Click "Save" at the top of Excel. Name and store the worksheet to your computer's hard drive, which includes the 3-D graph.

Tips & Warnings

• Cell addresses, such as "A1," are a combination of column letters (A) and row numbers (1).

• To select a different chart type, right-click on the chart, and then select "Change Chart Type" from the menu.

References

• TechTarget: 3-D (Three Dimensions or Three-Dimensional)?
• Microsoft Office: Create a Chart
• Microsoft Office: Change the Chart Type of an Existing Chart

Resources

• Microsoft Office: Don't Be Tempted by 3-D Charts
• Microsoft Office: Change the Format of Chart Elements