How to Create an Advanced Graph With MS Excel
Graphs, or as they are referred to in Microsoft Excel, charts, offer an advanced form of analysis and representation of data in a user-friendly format. The user can customize charts so that more focus and attention are brought to certain areas to the viewer's benefit. Two different versions of charts can be created--static and PivotCharts--both with their own advantages. Static charts allow straight-forward representation of data, e.g., "Sales by Location." PivotCharts provide a graphical meaning to large amounts of data and complex worksheets shown in PivotTables.
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Instructions
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Creating and Modifying Static Charts
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Highlight the data you wish to have represented in the chart, including the headings. Select "Insert" from the menu tab, which will then display numerous chart types including Column, Line, Bar, Pie, etc.
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Each type has an arrow that if selected will display all chart options for that type. If you hover the mouse over each option, a box will appear describing the chart and when it is most beneficial to use. Select the chart type you wish to use to display your data, simply select another type if unhappy with your selection.
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To modify and customize your chart, after you select your type the "Design," "Layout" and "Format" lists will appear on the "Menu" tab. "Design" will allow you to customize how your data is represented in the chart as well as in background highlights, "Layout" lets you change the variables, titles and labels, "Format" allows you to change font type, color, size and other text effects.
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To move your chart into a separate worksheet, select the "Design" tab and then "Move Chart Location." Select "New Sheet" and click "OK."
Creating and Modifying PivotCharts
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Highlight the data you wish to be shown in the PivotChart and then on the "Menu" tab select "Insert" then "PivotTable."
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Select a cell in the PivotTable and then click on the "Options" tab on the "Menu" bar. Click the "PivotChart" button, which then displays the different types of options.
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You can then modify the appearance of your charts in the "Design," "Layout" and "Format" tabs accordingly. To move the chart to a new worksheet, select "Move Chart Location" under the "Design" tab, select "New Worksheet" and click "OK."
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