Module 5 – Spreadsheets

Lesson 6 – Charts and Data Visualisation

Charts help turn data into clear visuals. They show patterns, comparisons and trends more effectively than raw numbers. This lesson explains how to create and edit basic charts.

1. Why use charts?

• Show trends over time.
• Compare categories or groups.
• Highlight totals, highs and lows.
• Make information easier to understand.

2. Common chart types

• Column chart – compares values between categories.
• Bar chart – similar to column charts but horizontal.
• Line chart – shows trends over time.
• Pie chart – shows parts of a whole.

Examples of when to use each:

• Column chart – monthly sales comparison.
• Line chart – sales trend through the year.
• Pie chart – market share.
• Bar chart – comparing product categories.

3. Selecting data for a chart

Select the data you want before creating a chart.

• Select headings and values together.
• Avoid blank rows or columns.
• Use clear headings (e.g., Month, Sales).

4. Creating a chart

Basic steps (Excel, Google Sheets):

• Select the data range.
• Choose Insert > Chart.
• Select the chart type.

5. Editing chart elements

You can edit parts of a chart after creating it.

• Chart title – describe what the chart shows.
• Axis titles – label the axes clearly.
• Legend – explains colours or lines.
• Data labels – show values directly on the chart.
• Chart colours – improve visibility or match a theme.

6. Changing the data range

You can expand or reduce the data used in a chart.

• Add a new month and extend chart range.

7. Moving and resizing charts

• Click and drag to move.
• Drag corner handles to resize.
• Place charts on a separate sheet for reports.

8. Choosing the correct chart type

• Column chart – comparisons.
• Line chart – trends.
• Pie chart – percentages.
• Bar chart – long category names.

9. Avoiding common chart mistakes

• Avoid 3D charts (they can distort data).
• Don’t add too many categories to a pie chart.
• Use clear labels.
• Ensure colours have good contrast.

10. Practical Activity

• Create a table of monthly sales data.
• Insert a column chart.
• Add a title and axis labels.
• Change bar colours.
• Create a line chart using the same data.
• Create a pie chart showing % share for 4–5 items.