Easy Notes of Data Analytics unit- 4 @Computer Diploma

Description

4.1 Simple Charts & Non-Adjacent Cells

Creating a basic visual is the first step in data storytelling.

• Simple Chart: A basic visual representation (Bar, Line, or Column) created via the Insert Tab.

• Non-Adjacent Cells: Selecting data ranges that are not next to each other using the Ctrl key (Cmd on Mac) to highlight multiple separate areas before inserting a chart.

• Data Selection: Highlighting labels (headers) along with numeric values to ensure the chart is automatically labeled.

4.2 Chart Wizard & Embedded Charts

Understanding how to generate and manipulate charts on a worksheet.

• Chart Wizard: A step-by-step legacy tool (now largely replaced by Recommended Charts) that guides users through selecting data, chart types, and titles.

• Embedded Chart: A chart that exists as an object within a worksheet rather than on its own separate sheet.

• Sizing & Moving: Using sizing handles (the small circles on the border) to scale the chart and the four-headed arrow cursor to drag it to a new location.

4.3 Customizing Display & Layout

Changing the “how” and “where” of your data presentation.

• Change Chart Type: Converting an existing chart (e.g., Column to Line) via the Chart Design tab.

• Switch Row/Column: A toggle that swaps the X-axis data with the Legend data to change the perspective of the analysis.

• Legend Placement: Moving the “key” to the Top, Bottom, Left, or Right to optimize the Plot Area space.

4.4 Advanced Formatting & Items

Polishing the chart for a professional appearance.

• Chart Elements: Adding or removing Axis Titles, Data Labels, and Gridlines.

• Plot Area vs. Chart Area: * Plot Area: The inner box where the actual data (lines/bars) is drawn.

  • Chart Area: The entire background containing the plot, legend, and titles.

• Data Markers: The specific points on a line chart (dots, squares, or diamonds) that represent data values.

• Number Alignment: Rotating or formatting axis numbers (e.g., as Currency or Percentage) for better readability.

4.5 Pie Charts: Specialized Visuals

Used specifically to show “parts of a whole.”

• Pie Chart: A circular chart where each “slice” represents a percentage of the total.

• Move to New Sheet: Using the Move Chart command to place a large pie chart on its own dedicated tab for better visibility.

• Data Labels: Adding numeric values or percentages directly onto the slices so readers don’t have to guess sizes.

• Exploding a Slice: Dragging a single slice away from the center to emphasize a specific data point (e.g., highlighting the highest-selling product).