Graphs

Creating graphs in Excel

Lesson Objectives• To identify different types of graphs• To understand when it is appropriate

to use different graphs• To be able to create suitable graphics

in excel

Why do we use graphs?– To present data– To make data easier to understand– To allow us to analyse data

How many different types of graph can you name?

Bar/Colu

mn

Pie

Line

• http://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/ks3/ict/software_applications/spreadsheets/activity/

• Section 4 – Graphs and Charts

When should I use each type of graph?

Bar/Column Pie Scatter/Line

Tracks changes over time

Do not show changes over time

Tracks changes over time

Used when changes are larger and more obvious

Used to compare parts of a whole

Can compare small changes for more than one group

EXAMPLE EXAMPLE EXAMPLE

Scores in 1 test Scores in 1 test Test scores over a term

Presentation• As we said, the whole point of a graph is to make it easier

to understand information. If you graph is not clear, then it won’t be very useful

What is wrong with this graph?No title

Axis are not labelled

Error with columns

Incorrect label

Creating graphs • Highlight the data in the table. • In the INSERT tab select the graph

you want to create.

Editing Graphs• Double click on your graph. A new tab of options

should appear at the top of your screen.

Is the graph not showing the correct data? Try swapping columns and rows

Is the title not where you want it? Is the key in the wrong place? Change the layout

Your task• Go to COMMON K> ICT> Year 7 >

Spreadsheets• Open the file called Graphs• Create 3 graphs using the data

provided. Each graph must– Show the data clearly– Include a title– Have both axis labelled correctly

When you have finished

How can you improve the presentation?

Double click on the column to alter the fill colour or image.

Extension• You want to create a graph on SOME

of the data in a table, but not all of it. • Hold down CTRL on your keyboard

and select the information you want to include

• Create a graph in the same way

• Try the extension activities in the 2nd sheet.