How to Create a Bar Graph in Excel 2003

Excel is the leading spreadsheet program on any home or office computer. It contains calculation abilities and graphics options. Follow the steps below to create a bar graph in Excel 2003:

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Excel 2003

1. Log on to your computer and pull up your Excel worksheet. You should be able to locate the program by using your “Start” button. When you cannot find it there, use your “Search” or “Find” function.

2. Arrange desired data in columns or rows. You only need to enter the numbers at this time.

3. Highlight the cells containing desired data. To select separated data, highlight the first piece. Then hold “Ctrl” while clicking on the remaining data.

4. Select "Chart" from the "Insert" menu or click on the “Chart Wizard” icon on the toolbar.

5. Choose your chart type. Click “Next”. Confirm the data range mentally and select if you want your series in rows or columns. Select “Next”.

6. Enter titles for your chart and axis. Choose the location of your chart. Select “Finish”.

Tips & Warnings

• Using a specific chart frequently? Set that chart as a default.
• Added to the menu bar will be a chart menu, once a chart has been created on a worksheet. This allows for changes to source data, add data, specify options, move the location of the chart and 3-D effects. Also appearing is a chart toolbar. Use it to modify your chart and show or hide your legend.
• The chart menu and toolbar does not give a command for creating a chart.