How to Make a Bar Graph on Google Docs
Creating visual representations of data, like bar graphs, can make your documents more engaging and easier to understand. Google Docs doesn't offer built-in graphing tools, but you can seamlessly incorporate bar graphs by using Google Sheets and then inserting them into your document. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create a bar graph on Google Docs.
1. Open Google Sheets
Begin by opening Google Sheets, which is where you'll create your bar graph. You can do this by visiting Google Sheets and either starting a new blank spreadsheet or selecting an existing one if you have your data prepared.
2. Enter Your Data
Input your data into the spreadsheet. For a bar graph, you’ll need two columns: one for categories (such as months, products, or groups) and another for values (numerical data). For example:
A | B
-----------|------
Categories | Values
January | 30
February | 45
March | 25
3. Select Your Data
Highlight the data you want to include in your bar graph. Click and drag to select both the categories and values, including the headers.
4. Insert a Bar Graph
With your data selected, go to the menu bar, click on Insert, then select Chart. Google Sheets will automatically generate a chart based on your data. The default chart type might not be a bar graph, so you need to adjust it. For detailed instructions on how to make a bar graph in Google Sheets, check out our comprehensive guide.
5. Customize the Chart Type
In the Chart Editor that appears on the right side of your screen, click on the Setup tab. Under the Chart type dropdown menu, choose Bar chart. You can select from different styles such as "Stacked Bar Chart" or "100% Stacked Bar Chart" depending on your needs.
5. Customize the Chart Type
In the Chart Editor that appears on the right side of your screen, click on the Setup tab. Under the Chart type dropdown menu, choose Bar chart . You can select from different styles such as "Stacked Bar Chart" or "100% Stacked Bar Chart" depending on your needs.
6. Refine Your Bar Graph
Go to the Customize tab in the Chart Editor to make adjustments. Here, you can modify elements such as:
- Chart & Axis Titles : Add or change titles for better clarity.
- Legend : Adjust the legend position or format.
- Colors : Change the color of bars for a more visually appealing graph.
7. Insert the Bar Graph into Google Docs
Once you’re satisfied with your bar graph, click the three vertical dots in the top right corner of the chart and select Copy chart . Open your Google Docs document, then right-click where you want the graph to appear and select Paste . A dialog box will appear asking whether you want to link the chart to the original spreadsheet. Choose Link to spreadsheet to ensure the chart updates if you make changes to the data later.
8. Adjust the Bar Graph in Google Docs
After pasting, you can resize or move the graph within your document. Click on the graph to select it, then drag the corners to resize or use the handles to adjust its position.
FAQ
Q1: Can I update the bar graph in Google Docs after pasting it? A1: Yes, if you chose to link the chart to the original spreadsheet, you can update the graph in Google Docs by clicking the Update button that appears if changes are made in Google Sheets.
Q2: How can I change the chart type in Google Sheets after creating it? A2: Open the Chart Editor by clicking on the chart in Google Sheets. Under the Setup tab, you can select a different chart type from the Chart type dropdown menu.
Q3: Can I add multiple series to my bar graph? A3: Yes, you can add multiple series by including additional columns of data in your Google Sheets. The bar graph will automatically update to include these new series.
Q4: Is it possible to add data labels to the bar graph? A4: Yes, in the Customize tab of the Chart Editor, you can add data labels to your bars by selecting Series and then enabling Data labels .