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?

oftware_applications/spreadsheets/activ ity/ oftware_applications/spreadsheets/activ ity/ Section 4 – Graphs and Charts

When should I use each type of graph? Bar/ColumnPieScatter/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 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 2 nd sheet.