How to Make a Graph Using Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Excel is a data tool that allows you to create a graph using specific data that you have entered onto the Excel spreadsheet. You can create various types of graphs, such as a scatter-plot graph, pie chart and bar graph, depending on how you want to compare your data. Before one can begin to create a graph using Excel, the data must be organized as you want it to appear in the graph, such as creating the X and Y axis of the graph. Also, you must keep in mind that the process for creating a graph is different on Microsoft Excel 2003 than it is on the 2007 version.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Microsoft Excel 2003
• Microsoft Excel 2007
• Windows 2000, XP or Vista

How to Make a Graph Using Microsoft Excel 2003

1. Enter the scientific data that you want to turn into a graph. For example, you can type a list of numerical volume of an experiment into column A and the molecules of each volume into column B. Highlight all of the numbers using your mouse, once you have successfully put in all of your data.

2. Click on the "Insert" option from the top tool bar and click on the "Chart..." option. Click on the type of graph that you want to create. The three most commonly used graphs are the column, bar and xy scatter graphs. For example, click on the first column option and then click on the "Next" button.

3. Make sure that data appears as you want to in the preview screen. In the column chart, the volume and molecules are compared side by side as bars. To rearrange the series of data, click on the button next to the "Data Range" option to choose the set of data to be displayed. Click on the "Next" button.

4. Add all of the extra information that you want to be shown on your graph. Click on the "Titles" tab and name your chart and the X and Y axes. Click on the "Next" button once the chart appears the way you want it to.

5. Click on the option to place your graph in the current data sheet or a new one, and then click on the "Finish" button. Your graph will then appear in the center of your spreadsheet. Right-click on the graph at anytime, and click on the "Chart Options" option to edit the graph.

How to Make a Graph Using Microsoft Excel 2007

6. Start by entering your data the same way as Step 1 for creating a graph on Microsoft Excel 2003. Highlight all of the data once it's entered.

7. Click on the "Insert" tab from the top tool bar and then click on the type of graph that you want to create. For example, click on the "Scatter" option and then choose the "Scatter with only Markers" option. A disorganized chart will appear at the center of your spreadsheet.

8. Use your mouse to right-click on the chart, and then click on the "Select Data..." option. Click on the button next to the "Chart range data" option to make sure the correct amount of data is selected. Click the "OK" button once finished.

9. Click on any section of the graph to type in new data. Click on the sections for the titles to type in the graph title and to label the X and Y axes.

10. Use your mouse to right-click on the chart at anytime and click on the "Change chart type..." option to transfer your graph data into a new graph. Your graph will now be complete.

References

• Using Microsoft Excel to Make a Graph
• How to Make a Graph Using Microsoft Excel

Resources

• Microsoft Office Online