Excel Chart Change Data Source Without Losing Formatting
Excel is one of the most widely used software programs for creating charts and graphs. Charts and graphs are a great way to visualize data and make it easier to understand. However, it can be a challenge to change the data source for a chart without losing the formatting. In this article, we will explore how to change the data source for an Excel chart without losing the formatting.
Why Change the Data Source for an Excel Chart?
There are several reasons why you may want to change the data source for an Excel chart. For example, you may want to update the chart with new data or change the range of cells that the chart is based on. Whatever the reason, it is important to know how to change the data source without losing the formatting.
Step by Step Guide to Changing the Data Source for an Excel Chart
Here is a step by step guide to changing the data source for an Excel chart:
Step 1: Select the Chart
The first step is to select the chart that you want to change the data source for. You can do this by clicking on the chart.
Step 2: Open the Select Data Dialog Box
The next step is to open the Select Data dialog box. You can do this by right-clicking on the chart and selecting the Select Data option from the context menu.
Step 3: Edit the Data Range
In the Select Data Source dialog box, you will see a table that shows the current data range for the chart. To change the data source, simply select the cells that you want to use for the chart. You can do this by clicking and dragging the mouse over the cells or by typing in the cell range manually.
Step 4: Update the Chart
Once you have selected the new data range, click the OK button to update the chart. The chart should now display the new data without losing any of the formatting.
Tips for Changing the Data Source Without Losing Formatting
Here are some tips to keep in mind when changing the data source for an Excel chart:
Tip 1: Use Named Ranges
Using named ranges can make it easier to update the data source for a chart. A named range is a group of cells that has been given a name. You can then use that name to refer to the range of cells in formulas and charts.
Tip 2: Keep the Data in the Same Format
When you change the data source for a chart, make sure that the new data is in the same format as the old data. For example, if the old data was in currency format, make sure the new data is also in currency format.
Tip 3: Check the Chart Axes
When you update the data source for a chart, make sure that the chart axes are still accurate. The chart axes should adjust automatically to display the new data.
Conclusion
Changing the data source for an Excel chart can be a challenge, but it is an important skill to have. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can change the data source without losing any of the formatting. Remember to use named ranges, keep the data in the same format, and check the chart axes when updating the data source for a chart.