Excel Online: Creating Stunning Graphs

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Setting up the Graph
   1. Adding the X-axis Variable
   2. Adding the Y-axis Variable
   3. Formatting the Titles
3. Entering the Data
4. Creating a Table
5. Making a Scatter Plot
6. Formatting the Graph
7. Adjusting the Horizontal Axis
8. Adjusting the Vertical Axis
9. Adding Axis Titles
   1. Adding the X-axis Title
   2. Adding the Y-axis Title
10. Conclusion

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to create a graph using an online Excel program. We will specifically focus on creating a scatter plot with lines. The graph will represent the relationship between voltage (independent variable) and distance (dependent variable). We will go step by step to set up the graph, enter the data, and format it to make it visually appealing and informative.

1. Setting up the Graph

To begin, we need to set up the graph by adding the variables to the X-axis and Y-axis. The X-axis will represent the voltage, while the Y-axis will represent the distance. We will format the titles to make them clear and readable.

1.1 Adding the X-axis Variable

First, we will add the voltage variable to the X-axis. In cell A1, write "Voltage" as the title. Don't forget to include the units, which in this case are volts (V).

1.2 Adding the Y-axis Variable

Next, we will add the distance variable to the Y-axis. In cell B1, write "Distance" as the title. The distance will be measured in centimeters (cm).

1.3 Formatting the Titles

Resize the columns A and B to fit the entire titles. Click and drag the column borders to adjust their sizes. Make sure the titles are centered for a neat appearance.

2. Entering the Data

Now, let's enter the data points for voltage and distance. The voltages we will work with are 2V, 3V, and 4V. The corresponding distances are 0 cm, 8 cm, and 21 cm.

3. Creating a Table

To make the data look more organized, we will convert it into a table. Highlight the entire table and click on the "Insert" tab. Then, select "Table" from the options. A dialog box will appear, click "OK" to create the table.

4. Making a Scatter Plot

Now, we will create a scatter plot with straight lines. Click on the data point "21" and drag to highlight the entire table. Then, click on the "Scatter" option with straight lines to generate the graph.

5. Formatting the Graph

After creating the graph, we can make some adjustments to improve its appearance and clarity. Right-click on the graph to bring up the formatting menu.

6. Adjusting the Horizontal Axis

To remove the excess empty space on the graph, adjust the bounds of the horizontal axis. Set the starting point at 2 and the ending point at 4 since all the data falls within this range.

7. Adjusting the Vertical Axis

The vertical axis appears fine as it is. It stretches up to 25, which is suitable considering the increments are in five units.

8. Adding Axis Titles

To provide more information, we need to add axis titles. Click on the graph to select it and then click on the "Chart" option. From the options menu, choose "Axis Titles".

8.1 Adding the X-axis Title

For the X-axis title, select "Title Below Axis" and type "Voltage" in the text box. Don't forget to include the units, represented by a lowercase "V" in parentheses.

8.2 Adding the Y-axis Title

For the Y-axis title, select the primary vertical axis. Choose the "Rotated Title" option and type "Distance" in the text box. We will be measuring the distance in centimeters for this activity.

9. Conclusion

By following these steps, you can create a well-formatted graph representing the relationship between voltage and distance. This graph allows easy analysis and interpretation of the provided data points. Apply these techniques to enhance the visual appeal and effectiveness of your own graphs.