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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
A Chart is an essential tool that allows users to present information in a visual format rather than as a table. Excel allows users to create charts in a wide variety of formats. This Job Aide outlines the steps for creating and modifying Charts.
Create a Chart
Charts are created based on a range of data. To create a chart, follow these steps:
- Add data to be charted onto an Excel worksheet
- Select the area to include in the chart
- Navigate to the Insert tab
- Click the desired Chart type - this will open a list of chart sub-types
- Choose the desired Chart and the chart will appear on the worksheet
Chart Elements
All Excel charts consist of elements which can be added, removed, or modified to fit your needs. Knowing the names of each element makes it easier to customize your chart using the Format tab. An image of the locations of these elements is included in the pdf attachment.
Chart Tools - Design Tab
Changes to the overall look and feel of your chart can be made from the Design Tab. From here you can change your chart to a different sub-type, or you can change the color theme by choosing a different style. In order to view the Design tab, you must click within your chart. An image of the general descriptions of the options available on the Design tab is included in the pdf attachment.
Chart Tools - Format Tab
Formatting changes can be made from the Format tab. For example, you can change the color of a series of columns in a clustered column chart, or change the color of a single column to draw attention to specific data. In order to view the Format tab, you must click on the chart. An image of the general descriptions of the options available on the Format tab is included in the pdf attachment.
Modifying Charts
Excel offers a quick way to access most-used options listed above by hovering over the chart and using the icons to the side of the chart. An image of the location of these options is included in the pdf attachment.
To review images or save/download/print a copy of this Job Aide, please select the pdf attachment.