How to Make a Combo Chart in Excel?

Having to create a chart in Microsoft Excel can be a daunting task, especially when you don’t know how to make a combo chart. A combo chart is an effective way to present multiple sets of data in a single graph. In this article, we’ll explain step-by-step how to make a combo chart in Excel, so you can confidently create the perfect graph for your project.

What is a Combo Chart?

A combo chart, also known as a combination chart, is a chart that combines two or more chart types in a single chart to illustrate different types of data. For example, a combo chart can be used to show a line chart and a column chart side-by-side, or to show a line chart and a bar chart, or to show a combination of column and line charts.

Combo charts are useful when you want to compare different types of data in a single chart. For example, if you want to compare sales figures for different products, you could use a combo chart to show both the sales figures for each product and the percentage of total sales for each product.

How to Make a Combo Chart in Excel?

Creating a combo chart in Excel is a straightforward process that requires a few simple steps. The first step is to select the data you want to include in the chart. This can be done by highlighting the data in the worksheet or by selecting a range of cells to include in the chart.

Once the data has been selected, click the Insert tab and select the chart type you want to use. For example, if you want to create a combo chart that includes both a column chart and a line chart, you should select the “Combo” chart type from the list of available chart types.

The next step is to customize the chart. You can adjust the chart title, add axis titles, modify the data series to be plotted, and adjust the chart type for each data series. For example, if you want to display a column chart and a line chart, you can adjust the chart type for the first data series to be a column chart, and the chart type for the second data series to be a line chart.

Using Legends

When creating a combo chart in Excel, you also have the option to add a legend to the chart. A legend is a key that identifies the different data series in the chart. To add a legend to the chart, click the “Add Chart Element” button and select “Legend” from the list of available elements.

The legend will be displayed at the bottom of the chart and will include a label for each data series. This label will correspond to the data series displayed in the chart. For example, if you have two data series in the chart, the legend will display a label for each data series.

Formatting the Chart

Once you have added the legend to the chart, you can customize the look and feel of the chart by adjusting the chart’s formatting. To do this, click the “Format” button and select the element you want to format. For example, you can adjust the font, size, and color of the chart’s title, or you can adjust the font and color of the chart’s data labels.

Saving the Chart

Once you have finished creating and formatting the chart, you can save it to the Excel workbook. To do this, click the “Save” button and enter a name for the chart. The chart will then be saved to the workbook and can be accessed at any time.

Conclusion

Creating a combo chart in Excel is a simple process that requires a few simple steps. Once the data has been selected, the chart type can be selected and the chart can be customized. Additionally, a legend can be added to the chart to identify the different data series in the chart. Finally, once the chart has been created and formatted, it can be saved to the workbook.

Related Faq

What is a Combo Chart?

A combo chart, also known as a combination chart, is a chart type in Microsoft Excel that combines two or more chart types into a single chart. Combo charts allow you to visualize data in different ways, such as different types of graphs or data points. For example, you can combine a line chart with a column chart to show both the total sales and average sales at the same time.

Why Use a Combo Chart?

Combo charts are a great way to visualize data in a way that is more interesting and informative than a single chart type. By combining different chart types, you can gain insights into the data that may not be as easily visible when viewing a single chart. For example, you can combine a line chart and a column chart to show both the total sales and average sales at the same time. This can be useful for quickly identifying trends or patterns in the data.

How to Make a Combo Chart in Excel?

Creating a combo chart in Microsoft Excel is a simple process. First, select the data you want to include in the chart. Then, click the “Insert” tab and select the type of chart you want to create. In the “Charts” section, select “Combo.” This will open a window where you can select the types of charts you want to combine and customize the appearance of the chart. Once you have finished, click “OK” and the combo chart will be displayed in your spreadsheet.

What Customization Options are Available for Combo Charts?

When creating a combo chart in Microsoft Excel, you can customize the appearance of the chart. You can change the chart type, color, font size, data labels, and other elements of the chart. You can also add trend lines, axes, and other features to make the chart easier to read and interpret.

What are the Advantages of Using a Combo Chart?

The primary advantage of using a combo chart is that it can provide more insight into the data than a single chart type. By combining different chart types, you can gain insights that may not be as easily visible when viewing a single chart. Additionally, combo charts can help visualize complex data in a more organized and informative way.

What are the Disadvantages of Using a Combo Chart?

The primary disadvantage of using a combo chart is that it can be difficult to interpret. Combining different chart types can make the chart more difficult to read and interpret. Additionally, if the data is too complex, it can be difficult to create a combo chart that accurately represents the data.

How to Make Combo Charts in Excel

Creating a combo chart in Excel is a great way to enhance the visual impact of your data. By combining different chart types, such as a line and column chart, you can give your audience an easier way to visualize trends and draw meaningful conclusions. With a few simple steps, you can easily create a combo chart in Excel and make your data stand out.