Preparing Effective Charts and Graphs
SECTION 1: Overview of the Process

This part of the tutorial provides an overview of the process of using a spreadsheet program to make charts and graphs. Although the steps are presented in chronological order, the process of creating a graphic is not linear. For instance, as you prepare your graphic, you might realize you need to include different data to convey your point effectively. As you review your completed graphic, you might decide to add a data label or remove some gridlines. As with any kind of technical document, you will find yourself backtracking and revising often.

Why use graphics? Graphics are important in technical communication for three main reasons:
  • Graphics help you communicate spatial information, steps in a process, and numerical relationships more effectively than if you used words alone.
  • Graphics help you clarify, emphasize, summarize, and organize information.
  • Graphics help you capture your reader's attention and help readers remember information.



HOME: Introduction to this tutorial
1. Overview of the Process
  1. Analyze Your Audience and Purpose
  2. Understand the Limitations of Spreadsheet Programs
  3. Enter Data into a Spreadsheet Program
  4. Select Data to Include in a Graphic
  5. Choose the Appropriate Kind of Graphic
  6. Customize the Graphic for Your Audience and Purpose
  7. Select Where to Place the Graphic in the Spreadsheet
  8. Insert the Graphic into a Word-Processing or Presentation Program
  9. Integrate the Graphic and the Text
2. Designing Effective Charts & Graphs
  1. Make Sure Your Graphic Has a Purpose
  2. Aim for Simplicity
  3. Be Honest
  4. Present a Manageable Amount of Information
  5. Follow Common Conventions for Graphics
  6. Label Your Graphic
3. Sample Graphics for Analysis
  1. Pie Chart
  2. Gantt Chart
  3. 100-Percent Horizontal Bar Graph
  4. Vertical Bar Graph
  5. Line Graph


Previous PageNext Page
 Bedford/St. Martin's | Business & Technical | About the Author | Catalog | Order a Book | Contact Us