How to create a thermometer chart in excel

Today we talk about How to create a thermometer chart in excel.

How to Create a Thermometer Chart in Excel

Creating a thermometer chart in Excel truly brings a sense of excitement and achievement to visual data representation. Just recently, I set a goal to raise $10,000 for a local charity fundraiser. For me, visualizing progress towards this target was crucial. The thermometer chart became the perfect tool to showcase our journey effectively. These charts help not only to track the progress but also to stir emotions, making the audience feel the urgency and impact of our fundraising efforts.

Step 1: Preparation of Data

Before crafting my thermometer chart in Excel, I painstakingly prepare my data. Here are the steps I follow:

• Identify the target amount: In my case, it was $10,000.
• Collect current progress: By the end of the first month, we raised $4,500, which allows for measurable visualization.
• Calculate remaining amount: I simply subtracted the raised amount from the target, giving me $5,500 left to achieve!

Step 2: Setting Up Your Spreadsheet

I find it essential to structure my Excel spreadsheet efficiently to create a thermometer chart. Here’s how I do it:

• Open a new Excel sheet: I label my columns as “Category,” “Amount Goal,” and “Current Progress.”
• Fill in the values: For example, I enter “Target” in “Category,” $10,000 in “Amount Goal,” and $4,500 in “Current Progress.”

Creating a Thermometer Chart

1. Establish Your Data Sets

For an effective thermometer chart in Excel, I ensure that I have two key data sets: the target ($10,000) and the current amount raised ($4,500). By differentiating these data sets, I can visually express how much progress has been made towards our goal.

2. Determine the Chart’s Input Numbers

In my case, I clearly defined the input numbers for constructing the thermometer chart. The current progress directly informs how high the chart should go, which is just under halfway to our $10,000 target, equating to 45% completion.

3. Create a Stacked Column Chart

With my data entered, I highlighted the relevant cells and went to the Insert tab to create a stacked column chart. When the chart appears, I realize how quickly I can turn my data into a visual narrative, sticking to the amount raised ($4,500) and the amount yet to be collected ($5,500).

4. Stack the Data Series

I find that stacking my data series correctly gives clarity to my chart. I make sure “Current Progress” is at the bottom, while “Remaining Amount” is perfectly stacked on top. This arrangement emphasizes my achievement against the total goal.

5. Change the Marker Colors

To make my thermometer chart visually appealing, I customize it by changing the colors. For the “Current Progress,” I choose a vibrant red to symbolize urgency and success, while I use a lighter shade for the remaining amount. It transforms the chart into an engaging representation of my journey.

6. Add the Data Label

Add the data labels directly on the chart gives additional context. I click on the chart, select the data series, and add a label showing the exact current amount raised—$4,500. This step helps the audience grasp our achievements instantly.

7. Reposition the Data Label

Sometimes, the initial placements of data labels can obstruct the view. Therefore, I drag the label to the top of my red section, making sure it’s completely visible and easy to read. This strategic relocation creates a clean, professional look.

8. Change the “Target Revenue” Axis

I then double-click on the vertical axis representing the total target amount. Here, I ensure that the maximum value is set to $10,000 in the Axis Options. This change provides thoughtful context to the chart, making it clear how much is required to reach our goal.

9. Modify the Second and Primary Axis

Next, I adjust the primary and secondary axes, hiding any unnecessary details like gridlines. This enhances the focus on the thermometer data and streamlines the viewer’s experience while interpreting the chart.

10. Change the Number Format

I find that modifying the number format, such as displaying it in thousands ($x,xxx), is often more convenient for everyone looking at the chart. It keeps my chart uncluttered and remains relatable to the audience without too much detail.

11. Remove Titles and Chart Details

To maintain focus on progress, I remove extraneous titles or legend details. By keeping it simple, my thermometer chart communicates our fundraising goals effectively, without unnecessary distractions.

12. Change Gap Widths for the Primary and Secondary Axis

By adjusting the gap widths between the columns, I create a more visually appealing look. Narrowing the gap creates a cohesive design, leading to enhanced clarity in my thermometer chart.

13. Insert the Thermometer Bulb

Finally, I add a creative touch by inserting a bulb shape (a filled red circle) at the bottom of the thermometer. This small change completes the look and enhances the chart’s resemblance to a thermometer, making my data not just informative but also visually striking.

Dynamic Thermometer Chart with Different Colors

Enhancing my thermometer chart with colors allows me to distinguish between different progress levels. For instance, I use green for reaching 50% of our goal and bright yellow for 75%. This visual distinction keeps the audience engaged and intrigued regarding our progress.

Tips for Customizing Your Thermometer Chart

• Experiment with contrasting colors that resonate with your audience’s emotions.
• Introduce threshold markers signifying important milestones, such as $5,000.
• Animate your chart during presentations to keep the audience captivated and involved in the narrative.

Things to Remember About Thermometer Chart in Excel

When creating a thermometer chart in Excel, it’s crucial to focus on simplicity and clarity. This visual tool beautifully summarizes progress, yet if overcomplicated, it may lose its effectiveness. Keep your audience at the forefront of your design choices.

Conclusion

In summary, creating a thermometer chart in Excel has transformed the way I present data related to goals. By sharing the story of fundraising, along with real numbers like $10,000 and $4,500, I create a narrative that engages my audience while effectively communicating our progress. Visualizing our fundraising journey through charts motivates everyone involved!

Related Tutorials

• How to prepare a temperature chart?
• Is there a thermometer chart in Excel?
• How to create a thermometer goal chart?
• How to make a thermometer graph in sheet?

FAQ

How to prepare a temperature chart?

To prepare a temperature chart, I structure my data in Excel, clearly noting each goal and current figure to ensure accurate and insightful data visualization.

Is there a thermometer chart in Excel?

While Excel does not have a pre-set thermometer chart, I can easily position stacked column charts to create one that effectively portrays my progress towards a defined goal.

How to create a thermometer goal chart?

Creating a thermometer goal chart relies on calculating your target and current figures, followed by constructing a stacked column chart representing the progress visually within Excel.

How to make a thermometer graph in sheet?

To make a thermometer graph in Sheets, I follow similar steps as in Excel, using stacked column charts to depict temperature or progress visually in a clear, engaging manner.