How to put several charts on one graph.

Question

I want to transfer my data to a graph, but I want the three different data sets to appear on the same chart. How do I do that?

Answer 1

Hi Elizabet,

To effectively visualize multiple datasets on a single chart in Excel, follow these clear steps:

1. Organize your data meticulously:
   • Place your categories (e.g., dates or labels) in the initial column.
   • Distribute each dataset into distinct columns, ensuring that each column is accompanied by a corresponding header.
2. Select all the data:

• Highlight the entire table, including headers.

3. Insert the chart:

• Go to Insert → Charts and select a chart type (e.g., Line or Column).

• Excel will automatically plot all datasets on the same chart.

4. If you already have a chart:

• Right-click the chart and select Data.

• Click Add under Legend Entries (Series).

• Select the range for the new dataset.

• Click OK.

5. Adjust if needed:

• Use Chart Design → Switch Row/Column if the data is not displayed correctly.

Answer 2

Enter all three data sets in the worksheet so they form one continuous data range (for example, each series in its own column with shared category labels in the first column). Then create or extend a chart so it includes all series.

If a chart already exists on the same worksheet as the data:

1. Make sure the third data set is in cells directly next to or below the existing source data for the chart.
2. Click anywhere in the chart.
   • The current source data range will be highlighted with sizing handles.
3. Drag the sizing handles to include the new columns/rows that contain the additional data sets.
   • The chart updates automatically and shows all data series together.

If the chart is on a separate chart sheet:

1. Place the additional data sets in cells directly next to or below the existing chart data.
2. Go to the chart sheet and right‑click the chart, then choose Select Data.
3. In the Select Data Source dialog, with it still open, click back to the worksheet and drag to select the full range that includes all three data sets.
4. Click OK. All selected series will appear on the same chart.

On macOS Excel, the same concepts apply: add the new series next to the source data, then either drag the chart’s data range handles (if the chart is on the same sheet) or use Chart Design → Select Data (if it is on a chart sheet).

If different chart types are needed for each series (for example, lines and columns together), first ensure all series are on one chart as above, then use Chart Design → Change Chart Type and choose a combination chart, assigning a chart type per series.

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References:

• Add a data series to your chart
• Create a combination chart