A Chart (graph) is a visual representation of worksheet data.

Used to present information in a graphic format, making it easier to see patterns, trends, and relationships. How does it simplify the analysis of Worksheet data? It enhances and simplifies the analysis of numerical data in a worksheet by clearly showing the relationship between data. It is useful to businesses where decisions are made based on the comparisons, trends, and patterns in data. Different parts or elements of a chart? 1. Chart Title describes what is charted. Excel automatically uses the series name, if one exists. 2. Data Series composed of related data to be plotted on the chart. 3. Legend contains labels which identify the different data series. 4. Data Labels used to identify each value in the data series. 5. Plot Area the part of the chart that shows data. 6. Category Axis often contains the names of data groups, such as locations, months, or years. Also known as X-axis or Horizontal axis. 7. Value Axis called the vertical or Y-axis. It often contains numerical values that helps interpret the size of chart elements. 8. Tick marks and Gridlines create a scale of measure for each value. 9. Data marker visually represents each data point in any chart. Chart Wizard allows you to create and modify various types of charts. It enables you to easily create a chart through a series of dialog boxes that specifies the data to be charted. Important points to consider in creating an effective chart: The series that must be contained in the chart. The type of chart that must be used. The titles, labels, and legends that must be included to make it easier to read and understand. Different types of Charts Column- Compares data using columns; the Excel default; sometimes referred to as a bar chart in other spreadsheet programs Line- Compares trends over even time intervals; looks similar to an area chart, but does not emphasize total Pie- Compares sizes of pieces as part of a whole; used for a single series of numbers Bar- Compares data using horizontal bars; sometimes referred to as a horizontal bar chart in other spreadsheet programs Area- Shows how individual volume changes over time in relation to total volume Scatter- Compares trends over uneven time or measurement intervals; used in scientific and engineering disciplines for trend spotting and extrapolation Combination chart- is two charts in one; a column chart with a line chart, for example. This type of chart (which cannot be used with all data) is helpful when charting dissimilar but related data. For example, you can create a combination chart based on home price and home size data, showing home prices in a column chart, and related home sizes in a line chart.