How to Make a Graph in Excel (line, bar, pie — the same 5 steps)

A graph and a chart are the same thing in Excel. Whatever type you want, the steps are identical.

Step 1: put the numbers in two columns

Labels on the left, numbers on the right, a heading on each.

Step 2: select them

Click A1, then Shift + click B4.

Step 3: insert the graph

Insert tab › in the Charts group pick:

• Line — for change over time (months, years)
• Column — for comparing things (regions, products)
• Pie — for parts of a whole, 6 or fewer

Not sure? Recommended Charts and take the first one.

Step 4: title and labels

Click the title, type yours. Click the graph › the + beside it › tick Data Labels. Untick Legend if there is only one series.

Step 5: move it

Drag by the edge. Resize with a corner. Right-click › Move Chart › New Sheet for a full page.

Check it worked

Change a number in column B — the graph moves with it.

Three things that usually go wrong

Months appear as a line too. Your months are numbers (1, 2, 3). Type Jan, Feb, Mar instead.

The axis starts at 100, not 0. Click the numbers on the axis › Ctrl + 1 › Minimum 0.

Nothing happens on Insert. You selected an empty area. Select cells with data.

Go further

Line graph · Bar chart · Pie chart · Which type when · The complete guide