Article: Typing in a data series requires you to organize your data. For most people, you will enter items in the first column, Column A, and enter the variables for each individual item in the following columns. For example, if you are comparing the sales results of certain people, the people will be listed in Column A, while their weekly, quarterly and yearly sales results might be listed in the following columns. Keep in mind that on most charts or graphs, the information in Column A will be listed on the x axis, or horizontal axis. However, in the case of bar graphs, the individual data automatically corresponds to the y axis, or vertical axis. Consider totaling your data in the last column and/or last rows. This is essential if you are using a pie chart that requires percentages. To enter a formula in Excel, you highlight data in a row or column. Then, you click on the Function, fx, button and choose a type of formula, such as a sum. Use headings in the second row and column to explain your data. Titles will be transferred to the graph when you create it. You can enter your data and headings into any section of the spreadsheet. If you are making a graph for the first time, you should aim to keep the data within a small area so it is easy to work with.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Open your Excel 2010 program. Click on the File menu to open an existing spreadsheet or start a new spreadsheet. Enter the data. Use formulas. Type in a title for the spreadsheet/graph using the first rows. Save your spreadsheet before continuing.