Add a chart to your document

You can make a chart in Word or Excel. If you have lots of data to chart, create your chart in Excel, and then copy it into your document. This is also the best way if your data changes regularly and you want your chart to always reflect the latest numbers. In that case, when you copy the chart, keep it linked to the original Excel file.

To create a simple chart from scratch in Word, click Insert > Chart and pick the chart you want.

1. Click Insert > Chart.

   

2. Click the chart type and then double-click the chart you want.

   

   Tip: For help deciding which chart is best for your data, see Available chart types.

3. In the spreadsheet that appears, replace the default data with your own information.

   

   Tip: When you insert a chart, small buttons appear next to its upper-right corner. Use the Chart Elements button to show, hide, or format things like axis titles or data labels. Or use the Chart Styles button to quickly change the color or style of the chart. The Chart Filters button is a more advanced option that shows or hides data in your chart.

4. When you've finished, close the spreadsheet.

5. If you want, use the Layout Options button to arrange the chart and text in your document.