How to Create a Bar Graph From an Excel Spreadsheet

By eHow Computers Editor

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For most people, a picture is more compelling than columns of numbers in cells, so convert your spreadsheet to a bar chart or line graph. These steps are intended for Microsoft Excel 97.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Creating a Chart

Step1
Start Microsoft Excel, and open the file you want to use to make a chart.
Step2
Drag the cursor over the columns you want to show in your chart.
Step3
Open the Insert menu, and select Chart. You can also select the chart icon on the toolbar.
Step4
Select the type of chart you want to make, such as a line graph or pie chart, from the list on the left.
Step5
Press Finish if you do not want to label or format your chart.
Step6
Press Next to label and format your chart.

Formatting Your Graph

Step1
In the box that appears after you clicked Next, click the Series tab.
Step2
Click on Series1, and enter a label for your data, such as "Number of Widgets per Month," in the Name field.
Step3
Click on any additional series, and name those as well.
Step4
Click Next.
Step5
Select the Titles tab to label your chart and both its x-axis and y-axis.
Step6
Select the Axes, Gridlines, or Legend tabs to format the look of your chart.
Step7
Select the Data Label tab to label specific points on your chart.
Step8
Select the Data Table tab to add a table of chart data under your chart.
Step9
Click Next.
Step10
Decide whether you want your chart on a new worksheet or on the same worksheet with your current Excel entries.
Step11
Click Finish.

Tips & Warnings

  • You do not need to select an entire column.
  • A bar graph shows how data has changed over a period of time.
  • A line chart shows trends at intervals.
  • Use the Back button if you want to change your selection.
  • Press Cancel if you do not want to continue creating your chart.
  • After the chart is done, you can also use the Chart menu to change the chart format.
  • Use the Chart Wizard provided with Excel.
  • Use the Back button if you want to change your selection.
  • Press Cancel if you do not want to continue creating your chart.

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eHow Article:  How to Create a Bar Graph From an Excel Spreadsheet

eHow Computers Editor

eHow Computers Editor

Category: Computers

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