Data analysis can be an extremely powerful tool, and the right software can help make it easier. Microsoft Excel, in particular, is a popular spreadsheet software and is used by many organizations and individuals. Its powerful data analysis tools enable users to format their data in ways that are more meaningful and/or easier to understand. One of these tools is the ability to alter the y-axis values of a chart. This feature can be used to make charts more impactful and understandable. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to change y axis values in Excel and explore some of the situations in which it can be useful. We’ll also discuss the various options for changing y-axis values, so you can make the most of your data analysis.
Customize the Y Axis Values in Excel
What is the X-Axis in Excel?
The horizontal scale and display of values and information in a chart in Excel is known as the X-axis. Excel may refer to the X-axis as the category axis. This scale’s information identifies the categories and types of data represented in the graph. Periods of time, dates, departments, and product categories are typical values for an X-axis.
What is the Y-axis in Excel?
The values shown vertically on a chart are referred to as the “Y-axis” in an Excel document. Because it shows the data’s numerical values on a chart, Excel refers to the Y-axis as the value axis. When you create your graph in Excel, the Y-axis is automatically filled with the numbers from the data range you’ve chosen. Measurements, money, percentages, or sales numbers are some examples of the various data types that are frequently displayed on the Y-axis of a chart.
How to change the Y-axis values in Excel
The values on a chart’s Y-axis correspond to information that was previously entered into the Excel sheet. With the help of the numerous tools offered by the Excel program, you can alter the data set and appearance of these values. To alter the Y-axis values in an Excel chart, follow these four steps:
1. Select the axis
Use your cursor to find and choose the Y-axis that needs to be changed. Ensure that the axis appears highlighted when selected. You can access the necessary data settings and menus by choosing the axis.
2. Open the “Select Data” menu
With the axis selected, right-click. A drop-down menu with options to edit and format your chart appears as a result. Click on the “Select Data” tool by scrolling to it. You can use the “Select Data Source” dialog box that appears once this is done to edit and modify the data that appears along the axis.
3. Select “Edit” under “Legend Entries (Series)”
Find the “Legend Entries (Series)” section in the dialog box’s lower left corner. Under this section, select the tab labeled “Edit”. To advance to the dialog box’s next screen, click “OK.”
4. Enter your data range in the “Series Value” box
In the “Series Value” box on the following screen, enter the data range for the Y-axis. Click “OK” at the bottom of the menu after entering the desired data range. The Y-axis of your chart now displays the values in the cells of the inputted range.
How to switch the Y and X-axis values in Excel
To reposition the Y and X-axis values in an Excel chart, follow these steps:
1. Select the chart
Navigate to the chart containing your desired data. To enable editing and open the “Chart Settings” tab in the toolbar, click anywhere on the chart. To allow for editing, keep your cursor in the chart area.
2. Open “Select Data”
Right-click anywhere in the graph to reveal the settings drop-down menu. Select the “Select Data” option by scrolling to it and clicking. By doing so, you can access the data dialog menu and modify the settings and information for the chart axes.
3. Click “Switch Row/Column”
Find the “Switch Row/Column” button in the dialog box’s center. To change the data that appears along the X and Y axis, click this button. Use the dialog box’s preview window to check that the data transfers properly and appears on the appropriate axis.
4. Press “OK”
Once the data has been switched and moved, click “OK” at the dialog box’s bottom. This ends the menu and brings up your chart again. Make sure your data displays properly and that the chart displays all necessary data on the appropriate axis.
Tips for changing axis values in an Excel chart
Here are some formatting and editing hints for axes in Excel charts:
Please note that Indeed is not affiliated with any of the businesses mentioned in this article.
FAQ
How do I change the y axis units?
Click on the axis that you want to customize. Open the “Format” tab and select “Format Selection. Go to the “Axis Options,” click on “Number,” and then choose “Number” from the Category dropdown menu.
