What is a Combination Chart? When do I use one? Why do I use one?

1. What: A combination chart uses two different chart types in the same graphic representation of your data.
2. When: There is a large value gap between one data series and the other data series.
3. Why: To reveal the relationships in your data that may not be apparent with a traditional chart or by merely examining the data.

In this short video lesson, I will demonstrate “How” to transform a traditional column chart into a Combination Chart that reveals an interesting data relationship.

Here are the steps to follow in this Excel Video Lesson:

1. Start with a standard Excel Chart – Here we used the F11 Key to create a Column Chart in a separate worksheet.
2. Notice the wide gap between the two data series. Click on one of the series columns (in this case “Dollars”) and on the Chart Toolbar select the “Line” chart type.
3. A wide gap in values remains between the two series. With the “Dollars” series selected, choose Format Series on the Toolbar. Click the Axis Tab and select “Plot Series on Secondary Axis.”
4. Format the chart to suit your needs. In this example, we change the color of the Plot Area and add Text to a “Call out” shape on the chart.

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