excel

How To Insert Axis Break In Excel

Jump to

    Inserting an axis break in Excel can enhance the readability of charts with data points that vary greatly in value. This technique allows for a better visual representation of both small and large numbers.

    Understanding the steps to create an axis break can be crucial for accurately displaying your data. However, the process in Excel can be non-intuitive and time-consuming.

    In the following sections, we will delve into a step-by-step guide on how to insert an axis break in Excel. Additionally, we'll explore why Sourcetable offers a more user-friendly alternative for accomplishing this task.

    How to Insert Axis Break in Excel

    Understanding Axis Breaks

    Excel charts may not always accurately display data when there are large discrepancies in series values. Inserting an axis break can enhance precision for both small and large series within your chart.

    Techniques for Axis Breaks

    Two primary techniques exist for breaking a chart axis in Excel: using a secondary axis or employing a broken line chart axis.

    Using a Secondary Axis

    To create an axis break, start by adding a secondary axis to your chart. This method allows you to plot series with vastly different values more accurately.

    Broken Line Chart Axis

    Alternatively, a broken line chart axis can simulate the effect of an axis break, tailoring the presentation of your data to emphasize specific points or trends.

    Faking an Axis Break

    While Excel does not offer a direct option for a broken Y axis, a similar effect can be achieved. This involves creating an additional chart series and applying a secondary axis to simulate the break.

    Bar Chart Considerations

    Be cautious with bar charts, as introducing a break in the Y axis can disrupt the ability to compare relative sizes of data. Instead, use additional series and a secondary axis to represent data more effectively without compromising comparison.

    Common Use Cases

    • excel

      Use case 1: Displaying disparate data ranges clearly on a single chart for enhanced readability

    • excel

      Use case 2: Comparing sets of data with significantly different values without using multiple charts

    • excel

      Use case 3: Improving the presentation of data that includes outliers or anomalies without distorting the scale

    • excel

      Use case 4: Creating educational materials to teach about data visualization techniques

    • excel

      Use case 5: Tailoring financial reports to emphasize specific growth patterns without misrepresenting the data

    Excel vs. Sourcetable: Streamlining Data Management

    Explore the evolution of spreadsheets with Sourcetable's cutting-edge approach, offering seamless data integration from multiple sources. This innovation surpasses traditional Excel functionalities, simplifying data consolidation.

    Experience the future of spreadsheet navigation with Sourcetable's AI copilot. Its intuitive chat interface effortlessly assists in formula creation and template design, a leap beyond Excel's capabilities.

    Sourcetable redefines efficiency in data analysis, providing an agile query environment. Its spreadsheet-like interface contrasts with Excel's manual data amalgamation, offering a streamlined, user-friendly experience.

    Maximize productivity with Sourcetable's intelligent automation. While Excel relies on user input for formulas and templates, Sourcetable's AI copilot accelerates the process, fostering a more dynamic workflow.

    Recommended Reading

    • How to... how to break y-axis in excel scatter plot
    • How to... how to change position of axis in excel
    • How to... how to switch axises in excel
    • How to... how to move axis from right to left in excel
    • How to... how to label axis on excel
    • How to... how to change x axis excel
    • How to... how to add horizontal axis labels in excel


    Sourcetable Logo

    Try Sourcetable To Get Insights From Your Data

    Ask questions about your data in a powerful spreadsheet that your whole team knows how to use.

    Drop CSV