Stacked Column And Clustered Column In Same Chart

Introduction

Charts are an effective way to represent data visually, and they can be used to convey complex information in a simple way. With so many chart types available, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we will explore the differences between stacked column and clustered column charts and how to combine them in the same chart.

What Is A Stacked Column Chart?

A stacked column chart is a type of chart that displays data in vertical columns. Each column represents a category, and the height of the column represents the value of that category. The columns are stacked on top of each other, with each stack representing a group or subcategory of data.

What Is A Clustered Column Chart?

A clustered column chart is a type of chart that displays data in vertical columns. Like the stacked column chart, each column represents a category, and the height of the column represents the value of that category. However, in a clustered column chart, the columns are not stacked on top of each other. Instead, they are positioned side by side, making it easier to compare values across categories.

Why Use A Stacked Column Chart?

Stacked column charts are useful when you want to show how the whole is divided into parts. For example, you might use a stacked column chart to show how your company's revenue is divided between different product lines or regions. The stacked column chart allows you to see the total revenue for each category, as well as the contribution of each subcategory to that total.

Why Use A Clustered Column Chart?

Clustered column charts are useful when you want to compare values across categories. For example, you might use a clustered column chart to compare the sales of different products in different regions. The clustered column chart makes it easy to see which products are selling well in which regions, and which products are not selling well.

Combining Stacked And Clustered Columns

Combining stacked and clustered columns in the same chart can be a powerful way to visualize complex data. To create a chart that combines both types of columns, you will need to use a secondary axis.

Related Chart

Stacked And Clustered Columns In Same Chart

Steps To Create A Chart With Stacked And Clustered Columns

Here are the steps to create a chart with stacked and clustered columns:

Select the data you want to include in your chart.
Click on the "Insert" tab and select "Column Chart."
Select "Clustered Column" as the chart type.
Right-click on one of the columns and select "Format Data Series."
In the "Format Data Series" dialog box, select "Secondary Axis."
Click "Close" to close the dialog box.
Right-click on the second series of columns and select "Change Series Chart Type."
Select "Stacked Column" as the chart type.
Right-click on the secondary axis and select "Format Axis."
In the "Format Axis" dialog box, select "Categories in Reverse Order."
Click "Close" to close the dialog box.
Right-click on the secondary axis and select "Format Axis" again.
In the "Format Axis" dialog box, select "Maximum" and enter a value that is equal to the maximum value in the primary axis.
Click "Close" to close the dialog box.
Format the chart as desired and add any necessary labels or titles.

Benefits Of Combining Stacked And Clustered Columns

Combining stacked and clustered columns in the same chart can provide several benefits:

It allows you to show the overall distribution of data as well as the distribution within each category.
It makes it easy to compare values across categories.
It can highlight trends or patterns in the data that might not be visible in a single chart type.

Conclusion

Charts are an effective way to represent data visually, and understanding the differences between chart types can help you choose the right one for your needs. By combining stacked and clustered columns in the same chart, you can create a powerful visualization tool that allows you to show both the overall distribution of data and the distribution within each category. With a little bit of practice, you can create charts that effectively communicate complex information to your audience.