Charts in Excel

A Chart is a graphical representation of data in a worksheet. It helps to provide a better understanding of large quantities of data. Charts make it easier to draw comparisons and see growth and relationship among the values and trends in data.

In Column chart, categories are organized horizontally and values vertically to emphasize the magnitude of change over a period of time. In Bar chart, categories are represented on the vertical axis and values are represented on the horizontal axis.

The different components of a chart are:

1. Chart Area — Chart area includes all the area and objects in the chart.
2. Category Axis — Category axis or X-axis is the horizontal axis of a chart.
3. Value Axis — Value axis or Y-axis is the vertical axis used to plot the values. It is located at the left side.
4. Data Series — Data series are the bars, slices or other elements that show the data values. If there are multiple data series in the chart, each will have a different colour or style.
5. Category Name — Category names are the labels, which are displayed on the X and Y-axis.
6. Plot Area — Plot area is a window within the Chart area. It contains the actual chart itself, and includes plotted data, data series, category, and value axis.
7. Legend — It depicts the colours, patterns or symbols assigned to the data series. It helps to differentiate the data.
8. Chart Title — It describes the aim and contents of the chart.
9. Gridlines — These can either be Horizontal or Vertical lines depending on the selected chart type. They extend across the plot area of the chart. Gridlines make it easier to read and understand the values.

Pie chart displays data in the form of a circle that is divided into a series of segments. These segments show the relative size of each item in the chart. It always shows only one data series and is useful when you want to emphasize on a significant element. This chart type works best with smaller number of values.

Category axis or X-axis is the horizontal axis of a chart whereas Value axis or Y-axis is the vertical axis used to plot the values. It is located at the left side.

To resize the chart, position the mouse pointer on any of the corner border of the chart. The mouse pointer will change to a double-headed arrow. Now drag the handle in the desired direction to change the size accordingly.

To move the chart, place the cursor on the chart area. A four headed arrow appears, press and drag it in order to move the chart in any direction. Release the mouse button to place it at the desired location.

As Ritu needs to show only one data series which is the population of four Metro cities and as the number of cities is small (only 4) so a Pie chart will be best suited for her project.

Tripti can use the Format Plot Area option that comes on right-clicking the plot area.