PivotCharts

A PivotChart is a chart that shows your PivotTable data visually.

PivotTable: Numbers in rows and columns PivotChart: Picture of those numbers

Charts are easier to understand. Instead of reading numbers, you see bars, lines, or pie slices.

Why Use PivotCharts?

• Numbers are hard to compare. Charts make it easy.
• Presentations look better with visuals.
• Trends are instantly visible in line charts.
• Charts update automatically when your data changes.

How to Create a PivotChart

You need a PivotTable first. If you do not have one, create it first.

Step 1: Click anywhere in your PivotTable

Step 2: Go to Insert tab

Step 3: Click PivotChart

Step 4: Choose a chart type (Column is most common)

Step 5: Click OK

Your chart appears next to the PivotTable.

Choosing the Right Chart Type

Example: Column Chart

You have a PivotTable showing sales by product:

Create a column chart. You will see three bars. The tallest bar is Laptop (highest sales).

Example: Line Chart

You have monthly sales data.

A line chart shows the trend. You can see if sales are going up, down, or staying flat.

Use line charts when time is involved (days, months, years).

Example: Pie Chart

You want to show what percentage each product contributes to total sales.

Pie chart shows slices. Bigger slice = more sales.

Only use pie charts when you have a few categories (5 or less).

Making Your Chart Look Better

Add a Title:

1. Click the chart
2. Click the title at the top
3. Type a descriptive name like "2024 Sales by Product"

Show Numbers on Bars:

1. Click the chart
2. Click the + button (top right of chart)
3. Check "Data Labels"

Now numbers appear on each bar.

Change Colors:

1. Click the chart
2. Go to Design tab
3. Click Change Colors
4. Pick a color scheme you like

The Best Part: Auto-Update

When you change your PivotTable, the chart updates automatically.

• Add a filter to PivotTable? Chart updates.
• Refresh data? Chart updates.
• Change rows or values? Chart updates.

No need to create a new chart.

Filtering Your Chart

PivotCharts have filter buttons on them.

Click the dropdown arrow on the chart to filter what data shows.

Example: Your chart shows all regions. Click the filter and select only "East". Now the chart shows only East region data.

Common Mistakes

Mistake 1: Using pie chart for too many categories Solution: Use column chart if you have more than 5 categories

Mistake 2: No title on chart Solution: Always add a descriptive title

Mistake 3: Wrong chart for data type Solution: Use line for trends, column for comparisons, pie for percentages

Tips for Good Charts

• Keep it simple. Remove unnecessary lines and decorations.
• Use clear titles. "Sales by Product 2024" not "Chart 1".
• Choose colors that are easy to read.
• Do not use 3D effects. They make charts harder to read.

Moving and Resizing

Move: Click and drag the chart to a new location

Resize: Click the chart, then drag the corners

Move to New Sheet: Right-click chart > Move Chart > New Sheet

Summary

• PivotCharts visualize PivotTable data
• Insert tab > PivotChart
• Column chart for comparisons
• Line chart for trends over time
• Pie chart for parts of a whole (5 or fewer categories)
• Charts update automatically with PivotTable
• Add titles and labels for clarity

Charts make your data come alive. Use them in reports and presentations.