Question
How do I change how a chart looks in Excel?
Answer
After you create your chart, you can customize it to give it a more professional design. You can change the look of your chart by selecting a new chart style, which quickly changes the chart colors.
When you first create your chart, it's in a standard color. By using a chart style, you can apply different colors to a chart in just seconds.
- Click in the chart. Then on the Design tab, in the Chart Styles group, click the More button to see all the choices, and then click the style you want. Some of the styles change just the color of the columns. Others change the color and add an outline around the columns, while other styles add color to the plot area (the area bounded by the chart axes), and some styles add color to the chart area (the entire chart).
- If you don't see what you want in the Chart Styles group, you can get other color choices by selecting a different theme. Click the Page Layout tab and then click Colors in the Themes group. When you rest the pointer over a color, the color is shown in a temporary preview on the chart, which is different from what happens when you look at a chart style. You see the color's effect before you apply it, saving you the step of undoing it if you don't like it. Click the one you like to apply it to the chart.
For more information about Charts and Graphs in Excel, please view the full tutorial from the CTL here: Excel Part 2
If you need further assistance, please click the CTL Support Request button on this page.