How to Make a Bar Graph in Excel
Use a Bar Chart to Compare Categories of Data
Bar Graphs and Column Charts are often used to describe the same type of chart with vertical bars. However, in Microsoft Excel, a bar graph has horizontal bars whereas a Column Chart has vertical bars. No matter, what you call them, Bar graphs and Column charts are used to compare different categories of data.
Bar Graph
Column Chart
Bar Graphs 101
To create a bar graph in Excel, select your data, then click on the Insert tab and then Bar. There are various choices of bar shapes (2-D, 3-D, Cylinder, etc) and formats (clustered, stacked or 100% stacked.)
Clustered
Stacked
100 % Stacked
Alternatives and "Advanced" Bar Graphs
If you are tracking data over time, then use a line graph instead of a bar graph. Consider using a histogram to show the distribution of measured data or a Pareto Chart to show the importance of the bars,
Histogram
Pareto Chart
It's time consuming and difficult to create Histograms and Pareto charts in Excel. However, its a snap if you have QI Macros add-in for Excel. Learn more and download a 30 day trial to see for yourself.
