Reference number: CH000911

How do I create a chart or graph in Excel / Calc?

Question:

How do I create a chart or graph in Excel / Calc?

Answer:

Creating a chart

Below are the steps required for creating a basic chart in Microsoft Excel and Sun OpenOffice Calc.

1. Open Excel or Calc and the document you wish to create a chart in.
2. Highlight the values of you wish to chart. For example, if you wish to chart the months totals that are listed in cells A20 through J20 you would highlight A20 through J20.
3. Once highlighted click Insert at the top of the window and select Chart.
4. This will bring up the chart wizard that will step you through each of the steps required for creating the chart, including the chart types you wish to use, the title, axis, legends, etc.

Editing an existing chart

If a chart already exists in the document you're editing you can change any of the chart properties by double-clicking on the portion of the chart you wish to edit. For example, double-clicking the chart will allow you to customize the colors, lines, and background values of the chart.

Additional information:

• See our chart and graph dictionary definitions for additional information about each of these terms as well as visual examples of each of the major types of charts and graphs.