Graphing Populations in Microsoft Excel
Graphing Populations in Microsoft Excel
1) On a new Excel page, type the data to be plotted on the graph. The data
that is to go on the x-axis must be in column A and the data to be plotted on the y-axis must
go in column B. Generally, it is best to title these columns in Row 1. (If the column widths
provided are too narrow for your data or heading, click on the line between columns A and B at
the top of the page. A double-sided arrow () will appear and you can now drag your
mouse until the line movies over far enough to accommodate the width.)
2) Highlight the numbers and titles in these columns by clicking and dragging the
mouse over them.
3) Click on the “Chart Wizard” button (looks like a mini bar graph) located at the top toolbar.
Select XY (Scatter) for Chart Type, and then choose the bottom left picture where dots are
connected by straight lines. Click on “Next” at the bottom of the page.
5) On this screen: In the “Titles” folder Type in a title for the graph
and type in the labels for the units for each
axis.
In the “Legend” folder Make sure the box “Show
Legend” is not checked.
In the “Gridlines” folder Make sure all the major
and minor gridlines are checked.
Then click on “Next” at the bottom of the page.
6) On this screen, select to place the chart on a new sheet. This will make the graph the full-page
size that will make it easier to view. Click “Finish” at the bottom of the page. Keep in mind
that if you need to go back to your table, all you need to do is click on the “Sheet 1” tab at the
bottom of your screen!
10) When printing your table, be sure to click the File menu, click Page Setup, and
then click on the “Sheet” tab. Be sure to check the “Gridlines” box. Print your
table and your graph, being sure to add all names on back of paper.