Creating graphs in Word 2019 is a breeze once you know the steps. In just a few clicks, you can add a visually appealing graph to your document to better illustrate your data. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Step by Step Tutorial: Making a Graph in Word 2019
Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why you might want to add a graph to your Word document. Graphs are fantastic for breaking down complex data into easy-to-understand visuals. Whether it’s for a school project, a business report, or just personal use, a well-made graph can make all the difference.
Step 1: Open the Insert Tab
First things first, open up Word 2019 and head to the ‘Insert’ tab on the ribbon.
Once you’re there, you’ll see a bunch of different options for things you can insert into your document, like tables, pictures, and yes, charts.
Step 2: Click on Chart
In the ‘Insert’ tab, find the ‘Chart’ button and click on it.
A dialog box will pop up with a variety of chart types to choose from. Think about what kind of data you’re presenting and pick the chart that makes the most sense. Pie charts are great for showing parts of a whole, while bar charts are useful for comparing different groups.
Step 3: Choose Your Chart Type and Style
Select the type of chart you want and click ‘OK’.
After choosing your chart type, Word will automatically insert a placeholder chart into your document and open up an Excel spreadsheet for you to enter your data.
Step 4: Enter Your Data in Excel
Fill in your data in the Excel spreadsheet that popped up.
Don’t worry if you’re not an Excel whiz—the spreadsheet is set up to make it super simple. Just replace the placeholder data with your own. You’ll see the changes in your Word document as you enter your data in Excel.
Step 5: Edit Your Chart’s Design and Format
Back in Word, use the ‘Chart Design’ and ‘Format’ tabs to customize your chart.
You can change things like the chart style, colors, and layout. This is your chance to get creative and make your chart fit the look and feel of your document.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a shiny new graph sitting pretty in your Word document, ready to impress anyone who lays eyes on it.
Tips for Making a Graph in Word 2019
- Always make sure your data is organized and accurate before inserting a chart.
- Use chart styles that complement your document’s design and color scheme.
- Consider your audience when choosing a chart type—pick the one that will be most clear to them.
- Use the ‘Chart Elements’ button to add titles, labels, and legends to your chart for better clarity.
- Save your document frequently to avoid losing any changes you’ve made to your chart.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I change the chart type after it’s been inserted?
You can change the chart type by selecting the chart, going to the ‘Chart Design’ tab, and choosing ‘Change Chart Type’.
Can I add more than one chart to my Word document?
Absolutely! You can add as many charts as you need—just repeat the steps for each new chart.
Is it possible to import data from an existing Excel file into a Word chart?
Yes, you can copy and paste data from an Excel file directly into the Excel spreadsheet that opens up when inserting a chart.
How can I make my chart data stand out more?
Play around with the chart styles and colors, and consider adding data labels for extra emphasis.
What should I do if my chart isn’t updating with the data I entered?
Ensure that you’re entering the data in the correct Excel spreadsheet cells, and that you’ve saved the changes in Excel.
Summary
- Open the Insert Tab
- Click on Chart
- Choose Your Chart Type and Style
- Enter Your Data in Excel
- Edit Your Chart’s Design and Format
Conclusion
Crafting a graph in Word 2019 is a skill that will serve you well in many arenas—academic, professional, or personal. It’s a straightforward process that can transform your document from plain text to an engaging, data-driven masterpiece. Remember to choose the right chart type for your data, customize it to fit the style of your document, and ensure your data is clear and easy to understand. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different designs and formats until you find the perfect one for your needs. With these tips and a little practice, you’ll be whipping up professional-looking graphs in no time. And who knows, you might even find yourself enjoying it! So go ahead and give it a try—happy charting!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.