ALS 3203 - Lesson 11
Spreadsheets - Graphing Data

© 2007 P. M. Choate

This lesson introduces you to the basics of graphing spreadsheet data.

In lesson 10 you were introduced to data and formula entry into spreadsheets. Many times you will want to graphically display the information contained in your spreadsheet data simply because people are more likely to understand the significance of your data from a "picture" than from a large data set, even though they both contain the same information. Therefore, you will be introduced to graphing data using your spreadsheet application.

  • Lesson Objectives:
    • Introduce you to the mechanics of graphing spreadsheet data
    • Introduce you to the major components of a graph
      • Axes titles, labels, and scale
      • Legend box
      • Chart Title
      • Data series points
    • Introduce you to the concepts behind selection of the proper graph type (not all graph types are appropriate)
    • Learn how to modify chart wizard default setting while creating a graph
    • Create graphs from online data set (which you will download)
  • Lesson Tasks:
    1. Complete short crossword puzzle - this contains a few terms that you should become familiar with
    2. View sample graph, noting components and their labels
    3. Review pages on selecting your graph type
    4. Take guided tour of graphing data, from data entry to final graph production
    5. Download the file with data and instructions for lesson 11 either by right-clicking on the filename or by double-clicking on the filename . (In the NOTE section below) If you are unsuccessful at saving the file to you computer, I may email you the file (Lesson11.zip) containing 2 data sets for graphing (request it from me). You then should create the same graphs as those illustrated in this lesson. In other words, you will use the same data that was used to create the graphs in this lesson. Using this data you are to create ALL of the graphs illustrated for each data set.

      NOTE: the file is named lesson11.zip. It is a zipped file. That means that after you save it to your computer you should create a folder for it. Then, from your download or email directory, double-click on the downloaded file name. You will be asked what directory you wish to extract or unzip the files to. Choose the folder you created for the file. There will be 4 files. One is a text-only file named lesson11.txt. This contains additional information and detailed instructions for the exercise. Read it carefully.The other files contain spreadsheets that will be Excel or other formats.

    6. When you have finished, submit (email me) a single spreadsheet file with all charts embedded in the worksheet. Be sure to name the file according to instructions. You may add additional pages within a single spreadsheet file. Use the program's Help to find out how.
    7. Be sure you Complete and submit Lesson Completion Certification
  • Lesson Resources:
    • Lesson 11 Glossary - be sure you look at this before you try to complete the exercise and graphing.
    Introduction Lesson11 Glossary Email me
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