Excel Bar Chart Secondary Axis Side By Side
Introduction
If you work with data analysis or reporting, you may have encountered the need to create a bar chart with a secondary axis side by side. This type of chart allows you to compare two different data series with different scales at the same time, making it easier to identify trends and correlations. In this article, we will show you how to create an Excel bar chart with a secondary axis side by side in a few easy steps.
Step 1: Prepare Your Data
Before creating your chart, you need to prepare your data in a way that allows you to plot it correctly. In this example, we have two data series: Sales and Expenses. Sales are in millions, while expenses are in thousands. To create a side-by-side chart, we need to make sure that both data series are in the same format. Therefore, we will convert the expenses data to millions by dividing it by 1000.
Step 2: Create a Simple Bar Chart
Now that our data is ready, we can create a simple bar chart. Select the range of data you want to include in your chart, including the column headings. Go to the Insert tab and click on the Bar Chart button. Select the type of chart you want to create, in this case, a clustered bar chart.
Step 3: Add a Secondary Axis
To add a secondary axis to your chart, right-click on one of the data series and select Format Data Series. In the Format Data Series pane, select Secondary Axis under the Series Options section. Repeat this step for the other data series.
Step 4: Adjust the Axis Scales
By default, Excel will use the same scale for both axes, which may not be appropriate if your data series have different ranges. To adjust the axis scales, right-click on one of the axes and select Format Axis. In the Format Axis pane, select the Axis Options tab and check the Secondary Axis box. Then, adjust the Minimum, Maximum, and Major Unit values for both axes until you are satisfied with the scale.
Step 5: Customize Your Chart
Now that your chart is ready, you can customize it to make it more visually appealing and informative. You can add titles, labels, legends, and data labels, change the colors and fonts, and adjust the chart size and layout. Experiment with different options until you achieve the desired result.
Conclusion
Creating an Excel bar chart with a secondary axis side by side is a useful skill for anyone who needs to analyze and visualize data. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a professional-looking chart that accurately represents your data and helps you make informed decisions. Remember to experiment with different options and customize your chart to meet your specific needs.