Choosing a Chart Type For Your Spreadsheet

The Best Chart Types

There are a lot of different chart types out there, and it can be confusing to work out just which chart type you need for a particular set of data. Some of the most common types of chart and their uses are explained below. The definitions of the charts remain the same no matter what operating system you use, or what spreadsheet program.

Pie Chart Type

Pie charts should only be used if you want to show proportions. This chart type emphasises the relationship between the whole and each part of that whole. A good example of this would be to display data on what spreadsheet program is preferred by 100 of the top spreadsheet experts.

Column/Bar Chart Type

The bar chart is undoubtedly the king of all chart types. Its very simplicity is what makes it so useful for a range of data types. Its the best chart type to use if you need to compare values.

Scatter Chart Type

Scatter charts (also known as XY-Scatter charts) can be used when you need to display two related sets of data on a chart, particularly if you want to make predictions based on the data. An example of using two sets of data to make predictions about the future would be to plot the use of various versions of a particular spreadsheet program with the incidence of insanity (I'm sure these two are linked somehow!) - you would then be able to predict just how insane the new version of the program is likely to send people. While that is a silly example, there are more practical uses, such as the height and weight of the average male, number of doctors sued verses the cost of medical insurance and so on.

Line Chart Type

Line charts should generally only be used where there is a period of time involved. These charts are perfect for displaying trends. For example if you wanted to chart the increase in use of open source spreadsheets during a 5 year period, the line chart would be an excellent choice for your chart type.

Area Chart Type

Area charts emphasise differences between two or more sets of data. With this chart its very important to get the layering right. If you do it the wrong way, smaller sets of data will be completely obscured by the larger ones.

This is just a basic overview of some of the most commonly used chart types. There are many more types of chart available when you start getting more advanced. Plus some spreadsheet programs allow you to create your own custom type of chart. Once you understand the use of these basic chart types, deciding what chart to use in your next spreadsheet should be a breeze!

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