Tell a story with charts
Choose a clear comparison, connect the right data and make the result easy to read.
By the end, you’ll be able to:
- Choose a column chart or line chart for a task
- Select headings and values without a total row
- Add meaningful titles and avoid misleading scales
Start with the question
A chart should make a pattern easier to see. Ask what readers need to compare before choosing a chart type. For exact values, a small table may already be the best answer.
A column chart compares categories using vertical bars. A line chart emphasizes change across an ordered sequence, such as months. Keep time in chronological order, even if sorting the values would create a more dramatic shape.
A pie chart can show a few nonnegative parts of a complete whole, but it is harder to compare similar slices. Avoid it for negative values or changes over time. This lesson’s interactive builder focuses on columns and lines.
Worked example: monthly orders
- Select A1:B5, including Month and Orders.
- Choose Insert, then a line chart to emphasize the monthly trend.
- Confirm Jan, Feb, Mar and Apr are the category labels, with Orders as one numeric series.
- Set the chart title to Monthly orders and label units as needed.
- Move and resize the chart so it does not cover the source data.
Do not add a grand-total row as another month. The total combines the observations and would distort the comparison. If Excel interprets rows and columns incorrectly, inspect Select Data or Switch Row/Column.
| A | B | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Month | Orders |
| 2 | Jan | 40 |
| 3 | Feb | 55 |
| 4 | Mar | 45 |
| 5 | Apr | 70 |
Describe what the chart actually shows
Orders rise from 40 in January to 55 in February, fall to 45 in March and reach 70 in April. The chart shows variation as well as an overall increase. It does not explain why the changes happened.
“Monthly orders” is a useful title. “Amazing growth!” assumes a conclusion and hides the measure. Keep the period, units and source context clear. For several series, use consistent colors and a readable legend.
The browser builder below redraws the selected type and title immediately. It uses a zero baseline for both previews and includes the underlying table for precise values.
Make fair comparisons
Column and bar charts should normally start their value axis at zero, because bar length represents magnitude. Starting at 90 for values of 95 and 100 makes a modest difference look much larger.
Line charts can sometimes use a narrower axis to show variation, but label it clearly and explain the context. Avoid 3D effects, excessive colors and decorative backgrounds that interfere with reading.
Check the selected range, category labels, unit, title and axis. Change one source value and confirm the chart updates. A good-looking chart can still be connected to the wrong cells.
Give it a try.
Work through each exercise, check your answer and use a hint whenever you need one. Formula tasks check changed inputs, including boundary cases.
0 of 4 exercises complete
Take this with you
Choose the chart for the question, verify the source range and use honest scales and descriptive labels.
Practice in Excel
Download the course workbook, follow the tasks, save your completed .xlsx and check its supported formula tasks here. Native Excel features use a separate review checklist.
Download practice workbook Check my workbook ↗Technical references and lesson review
Original lesson content. Technical behavior checked against Microsoft documentation. Reviewed 2026-10-16.