Excel Bar Chart Stacked And Side By Side
Excel is a powerful tool for data analysis and visualization. One of the most popular types of charts in Excel is the bar chart. Bar charts are great for comparing values across different categories. In this article, we will explore two types of bar charts in Excel: stacked and side by side.
Stacked Bar Chart
A stacked bar chart is a type of bar chart that displays values in different categories as bars, with each bar representing the total value. The bars are divided into segments, each representing a different value within the total. The segments are stacked on top of each other, hence the name "stacked bar chart".
Stacked bar charts are useful for comparing the total value across different categories and seeing how the different values contribute to the total. They are also useful for showing the progression of a value over time.
To create a stacked bar chart in Excel, follow these steps:
- Select the data you want to include in the chart.
- Click on the "Insert" tab in the ribbon.
- Select "Bar" from the chart types.
- Select "Stacked Bar" from the options.
- Your stacked bar chart will be created.
Side By Side Bar Chart
A side by side bar chart is a type of bar chart that displays values in different categories as bars, with each bar representing a different value. The bars are placed side by side, making it easy to compare values across different categories.
Side by side bar charts are useful for comparing values across different categories and seeing how they differ from each other. They are also useful for showing the difference between two values within the same category.
To create a side by side bar chart in Excel, follow these steps:
- Select the data you want to include in the chart.
- Click on the "Insert" tab in the ribbon.
- Select "Bar" from the chart types.
- Select "Clustered Bar" from the options.
- Your side by side bar chart will be created.
When to Use Stacked vs. Side By Side Bar Charts
Both stacked and side by side bar charts are useful tools for data visualization. The choice between the two depends on the type of data you are trying to display and the story you are trying to tell.
Use a stacked bar chart when you want to show how different values contribute to a total, or when you want to show the progression of a value over time. Use a side by side bar chart when you want to compare values across different categories or show the difference between two values within the same category.
Conclusion
Excel offers a variety of tools for data visualization, including stacked and side by side bar charts. These charts are great for comparing values across different categories and showing how different values contribute to a total. When choosing between a stacked and side by side bar chart, consider the type of data you are trying to display and the story you are trying to tell.