Excel Resize Chart Area Without Resizing Plot Area
Excel is a powerful tool for data analysis and presenting information in a visually appealing way. One of the ways to present data in Excel is by creating charts. However, sometimes the default size of the chart area may not be suitable for your needs. In this article, we will discuss how to resize the chart area without resizing the plot area in Excel.
Understanding Chart Area and Plot Area
Before we dive into the resizing process, let's first understand what the chart area and plot area are. The chart area is the entire area that encompasses the chart, including the plot area, axis labels, and title. The plot area, on the other hand, is the area where the actual chart data is plotted.
When you resize the chart area, it affects the entire chart, including the plot area. This can distort the chart and make it difficult to read. Therefore, it is important to know how to resize the chart area without affecting the plot area.
Resizing Chart Area Without Resizing Plot Area
To resize the chart area without resizing the plot area, you need to follow these simple steps:
- Select the chart by clicking on it.
- Click on the Chart Elements button (the plus sign icon) located on the right-hand side of the chart.
- Select the Chart Area option from the list of elements.
- Click on the arrow next to the Chart Area option and select Format Chart Area.
- In the Format Chart Area pane that appears on the right-hand side of the screen, click on the Size & Properties tab.
- Under the Size section, change the Height and Width values to your desired size. This will resize the chart area without affecting the plot area.
By following these simple steps, you can resize the chart area without distorting the chart or affecting the plot area.
Conclusion
Excel is a powerful tool for data analysis and presenting information in a visually appealing way. Charts are a great way to present data, but sometimes the default size of the chart area may not be suitable for your needs. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can resize the chart area without affecting the plot area, and present your data in the best possible way.