Skip to content
KnowledgeCity

Microsoft 365 Excel Beginner (2023): Plots and Charts

Learn how to display results and graphics
Preview the first lesson free — get full access to all 4 lessons.
Course: On-Demand
Beginner Provider Bob Akbar  4 Lessons ·  29m  in Arabic, German, English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Chinese 

Course Description

Most users want to present data findings in a visual way that is easy to understand. For this reason, charts, plots, pictures and shapes are useful. In this Excel course, we’ll explore powerful tools for beginner users to present their data.

When using charts, the data is related on both axes. When using plots, we are showing points that may not be related to a dependent variable. Both of these methods provide visual displays. There are effective methods for testing different previews to see which type of display provides the best representation of your data set. Charts and plots can be customized with extensive details to provide all the tools necessary for professional presentations. Finally, the ability to use pictures and shapes can add richness and clarity to your presentations. You will learn how to draw an audience’s attention to specific areas of your data tables and make ideas stand out.

What You'll Learn

  • Distinguish charts from plots and recognize when each is appropriate for representing a data set
  • Create and customize charts in Excel across both axes for related data
  • Build plots to display points that may not relate to a dependent variable
  • Identify Excel's graphics options and apply layering to make ideas stand out
  • Add pictures and shapes to draw an audience's attention to specific areas of data tables
  • Test different display previews to find the best visual representation of your data

Key Takeaways

  • Charts, plots, pictures and shapes are useful tools for presenting data findings in a visual, easy-to-understand way.
  • Charts relate data on both axes, while plots show points that may not be related to a dependent variable.
  • Charts and plots can be customized with extensive details to support professional presentations.
  • Testing different previews helps determine which type of display best represents a given data set.
  • Pictures and shapes add richness and clarity and can draw an audience's attention to specific areas of data tables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this course for?

It is an Excel course designed for beginner users who want to present their data visually in Microsoft 365 Excel (2023).

What topics does this course cover?

It covers charts (in two parts), plots, and pictures and shapes, including Excel graphics options and layering.

What is the difference between charts and plots in this course?

Charts relate the data on both axes, while plots show points that may not be related to a dependent variable; both provide visual displays.

What skills will I gain from this course?

You will build skills in Microsoft Excel, spreadsheets, data visualization, graphical tools, pivot tables and charts, and visualization.

How is the course structured?

It is organized into four lessons: Charts (Part 1), Charts (Part 2), Plots, and Pictures and Shapes.