Create Dual Y Axis Graph In Excel Easily

How to Create a Dual Y Axis Graph in Excel Easily

Creating a dual y axis graph in Excel can be a great way to visualize data that has two different scales or units. This type of graph is particularly useful when you need to compare two sets of data that have different ranges or units. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a dual y axis graph in Excel easily.

Why Use a Dual Y Axis Graph?

A dual y axis graph is useful when you need to compare two sets of data that have different scales or units. For example, you might want to compare the sales revenue of a company in dollars with the number of units sold. In this case, the sales revenue might be in the thousands or millions, while the number of units sold might be in the hundreds or thousands. By using a dual y axis graph, you can display both sets of data on the same graph, making it easier to compare and analyze the data.

Creating a Dual Y Axis Graph in Excel

To create a dual y axis graph in Excel, follow these steps:

Select the data that you want to use for the graph. This should include the two sets of data that you want to compare.
Go to the "Insert" tab in the ribbon and click on the "Chart" button.
In the "Chart" dialog box, select the "Column" chart type and click "OK".
In the "Chart" dialog box, click on the "Secondary Axis" button and select the secondary axis option.
In the "Secondary Axis" dialog box, select the data series that you want to display on the secondary axis.
Click "OK" to create the graph.

Customizing the Dual Y Axis Graph

Once you have created the dual y axis graph, you can customize it to suit your needs. Here are a few ways you can customize the graph:

Change the axis titles: You can change the titles of the x and y axes to make the graph more readable.
Change the axis scales: You can change the scales of the x and y axes to make the graph more readable.
Add gridlines: You can add gridlines to the graph to make it easier to read.
Change the colors: You can change the colors of the graph to make it more visually appealing.

Common Issues with Dual Y Axis Graphs

While dual y axis graphs can be very useful, there are some common issues that you may encounter when creating them. Here are a few common issues and how to resolve them:

Data series not aligned: If the data series are not aligned, it can be difficult to compare the data. To resolve this, make sure that the data series are aligned by selecting the "Align Data Series" option in the "Chart" dialog box.
Axis scales not correct: If the axis scales are not correct, it can be difficult to read the graph. To resolve this, make sure that the axis scales are correct by selecting the "Axis Options" button in the "Chart" dialog box.
Graph not readable: If the graph is not readable, it can be difficult to understand the data. To resolve this, make sure that the graph is readable by changing the axis titles, axis scales, and adding gridlines.

Best Practices for Creating Dual Y Axis Graphs

Here are some best practices for creating dual y axis graphs:

Use clear and concise axis titles: Make sure that the axis titles are clear and concise so that the graph is easy to read.
Use appropriate axis scales: Make sure that the axis scales are appropriate for the data so that the graph is easy to read.
Use gridlines: Use gridlines to make the graph easier to read.
Use colors effectively: Use colors effectively to make the graph more visually appealing.

Conclusion

Creating a dual y axis graph in Excel can be a great way to visualize data that has two different scales or units. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a dual y axis graph that is clear, concise, and easy to read. Remember to customize the graph to suit your needs and follow best practices for creating dual y axis graphs.