Bar Graph Template Excel Free Download: Tips and Tricks for Better Data Presentation
Bar Graph Template Excel Free Download
If you are looking for a simple and effective way to visualize your data, you might want to consider using a bar graph. A bar graph, also known as a bar chart, is a type of chart that displays data using rectangular bars of different heights or lengths. In this article, you will learn what a bar graph is, why you should use it, how to create one in Excel, and how to download free bar graph templates for Excel.
bar graph template excel free download
What is a Bar Graph and Why Use It?
A bar graph is a type of chart that displays data using rectangular bars of different heights or lengths. The height or length of each bar represents the value of a category or a group of data. The bars can be arranged horizontally or vertically, depending on the type of data and the preference of the user. There are two main types of bar graphs:
Clustered bar graph: This type of bar graph shows the values of different categories or groups for each variable or subcategory. For example, you can use a clustered bar graph to compare the sales of different products in different regions.
Stacked bar graph: This type of bar graph shows the values of different categories or groups as part of a whole for each variable or subcategory. For example, you can use a stacked bar graph to show the composition of the population by age and gender in different countries.
Bar graphs are useful for displaying and comparing data that are categorical or discrete, such as names, labels, or groups. They can help you to:
See the distribution and variation of data across categories or groups.
Identify patterns, trends, outliers, and gaps in data.
Communicate your findings clearly and effectively to your audience.
However, bar graphs also have some limitations that you should be aware of. They can:
Become cluttered and confusing if there are too many categories or groups, or if the bars are too thin or too wide.
Mislead or distort the data if the scale or the axis are not consistent or appropriate.
Hide important details or nuances in data if they are aggregated or simplified.
How to Create a Bar Graph in Excel
Creating a bar graph in Excel is easy and straightforward. You just need to follow these three steps:
Step 1: Prepare Your Data
The first step is to organize your data in a table format in Excel. Make sure that:
Your data are arranged in rows and columns, with clear labels and headings.
Your data are numerical and categorical, without any errors or missing values.
Your data are sorted or filtered according to your needs and preferences.
Step 2: Insert a Bar Chart
The second step is to insert a bar chart from the Insert tab in Excel. To do this:
Select your data range, including the labels and headings.
Go to the Insert tab and click on the Bar Chart icon in the Charts group.
Choose the type of bar chart that suits your data and purpose. You can choose from 2-D or 3-D clustered or stacked bar charts, as well as 100% stacked bar charts that show the percentage of each category or group.
A bar chart will appear on your worksheet, with default settings and options.
Step 3: Customize Your Bar Chart
The third step is to customize your bar chart to make it more appealing and informative. To do this:
Click on the bar chart to activate the Chart Tools tabs in the ribbon.
Use the Design tab to change the layout, style, and color of your bar chart. You can also add or remove chart elements, such as the title, legend, axis, gridlines, and data labels.
Use the Format tab to adjust the size, position, and alignment of your bar chart. You can also apply different effects, such as shadows, glows, and 3-D rotations.
Use the right-click menu or the Format Data Series pane to modify the properties of your bars, such as the gap width, overlap, fill, and border.
Use the right-click menu or the Format Axis pane to change the scale, range, and format of your axis. You can also add or edit tick marks, labels, and gridlines.
You can also use the Chart Filters button on the upper right corner of your bar chart to show or hide specific data points or categories.
How to Download Free Bar Graph Templates for Excel
If you want to save time and effort in creating a bar graph in Excel, you can also use some of the free templates available online. Here are some of the websites that offer free bar graph templates for Excel:
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Automate Excel
This website provides a variety of free Excel templates for different purposes, including bar graphs. You can download and customize the templates according to your needs and preferences. Some of the bar graph templates available are:
Basic Bar Chart Template
Stacked Bar Chart Template
Clustered Bar Chart Template
3-D Bar Chart Template
Horizontal Bar Chart Template
You can access the templates from this link: https://www.automateexcel.com/templates/bar-chart/
Visme
This website is an online platform that allows you to create and share visual content, such as charts, graphs, infographics, and presentations. You can use their free bar graph maker tool to create stunning and interactive bar graphs in minutes. You can choose from a range of templates, colors, fonts, icons, and images. You can also import your data from Excel or other sources, and export your bar graph as an image, PDF, or HTML file. Some of the features of their bar graph maker tool are:
Drag-and-drop interface
Data visualization widgets
Animation and interactivity options
Embedding and sharing capabilities
Cloud storage and collaboration tools
You can access their bar graph maker tool from this link: https://www.visme.co/graph-maker/bar-graph/
Excel Bar Charts Clustered, Stacked Template
This is a simple and elegant template that shows you how to create clustered and stacked bar charts in Excel. It also includes some tips and tricks on how to format and customize your bar charts. You can use this template as a reference or a starting point for your own bar graphs. Some of the features of this template are:
Data table with sample data
Clustered bar chart with data labels and legend
Stacked bar chart with data labels and legend
Instructions and notes on how to create and modify your bar charts
You can download this template from this link: https://www.vertex42.com/ExcelTemplates/excel-bar-charts.html
Conclusion
A bar graph is a type of chart that displays data using rectangular bars of different heights or lengths. It is useful for displaying and comparing data that are categorical or discrete. You can create a bar graph in Excel by following three steps: prepare your data, insert a bar chart, and customize your bar chart. You can also download free bar graph templates for Excel from various websites, such as Automate Excel, Visme, and Excel Bar Charts Clustered, Stacked Template.
FAQs
What is the difference between a bar graph and a histogram?A histogram is a special type of bar graph that shows the frequency distribution of a continuous variable. It has no gaps between the bars and the bars are usually equal in width.
How do I change the orientation of my bar graph in Excel?You can change the orientation of your bar graph in Excel by selecting your bar chart and going to the Design tab. Then, click on the Switch Row/Column button in the Data group. This will swap the horizontal and vertical axis of your bar graph.
How do I add a trendline to my bar graph in Excel?You can add a trendline to your bar graph in Excel by selecting your bar chart and going to the Design tab. Then, click on the Add Chart Element button in the Chart Layouts group. Choose Trendline from the drop-down menu and select the type of trendline that you want. You can also customize your trendline by right-clicking on it and choosing Format Trendline from the menu.
How do I create a 100% stacked bar graph in Excel?You can create a 100% stacked bar graph in Excel by following the same steps as creating a regular stacked bar graph, but choosing the 100% Stacked Bar option from the Bar Chart icon in the Insert tab. A 100% stacked bar graph shows the percentage of each category or group as part of a whole for each variable or subcategory.
How do I create a combination chart with a bar graph and a line graph in Excel?You can create a combination chart with a bar graph and a line graph in Excel by following these steps:
Create a bar graph with your data as usual.
Select your data range for the line graph and copy it.
Select your bar chart and paste the copied data.
A new series will appear on your bar chart as another set of bars.
Right-click on the new series and choose Change Series Chart Type from the menu.
Select Line from the options and click OK.
A line graph will appear on top of your bar graph, using the same axis.