Keep It Simple: Episode 06
Welcome back to another episode of "Keep it Simple!" In today's post, we're going to dive into a simple trick that can take your Excel charts from good to great. Have you ever found yourself inserting shapes or changing background colors to make your charts more visually appealing? While these can be effective, there's a much simpler and cleaner way to enhance your charts: using the Chart Format Area.
- Don't Insert a Shape to Make Round Corners or to Change the Background Color
This is a common mistake I see many Excel users make. Instead of inserting a shape, use the Chart Format Area to add background color, border, and a nice shadow to add depth of field. This not only simplifies the process, but it also gives your chart a cleaner and more professional look.
- Use the Chart Format Area
The Chart Format Area is your go-to tool for customizing your charts. Here's how you can use it to add:
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Background color: Choose a color that complements your data and enhances the overall visual of the chart.
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Border: Add a border to give your chart a defined edge. You can customize the color and thickness of the border to suit your preferences.
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Nice shadow: A shadow adds depth to your chart, making it pop off the page. This is a small touch that can make a big difference in the overall aesthetic of your chart.
And for those of you who love round corners, don't worry! The Chart Format Area has got you covered. Just head to the bottom of the Format Area and activate the Round Corner option.
- Usual Recommendations
As with any visual, it's important to use a good color theme. A cohesive color theme can tie your chart together and make it more visually appealing. Choose colors that complement each other and your data to create a chart that is both informative and beautiful.
By following these simple tricks, you can create stunning Excel charts that will impress your colleagues and make your data shine. No need to fuss with shapes or background colors – just head to the Chart Format Area and let your creativity flow!
Now that we've covered how to enhance your charts, let's take a look at a few examples to see these tips in action.
[Insert Example Charts Here]
As you can see, these charts are visually appealing and easy to read. The background colors complement the data, and the borders and shadows add depth and definition. The round corners are a nice touch that adds a modern feel to the charts.
I hope you found this post helpful and that you're inspired to try out these tricks in your own Excel charts. Remember, it's all about keeping it simple and letting the data speak for itself. Stay tuned for the next episode of "Keep it Simple," where we'll explore more tips and tricks to help you master Excel. Until next time!
