Create a thermometer chart in excel

Today we talk about Create a thermometer chart in excel.

As someone who’s constantly looking for better ways to present data, I was on a mission to create more engaging visualizations. That’s when I stumbled upon the thermometer chart in Excel. It¡¯s a glorious way to depict progress toward a goal, be it a sales target or a fundraising mission. Imagine a visual that makes your audience go “Wow!” every time they glance at it! In this article, I¡¯m excited to share with you how to create a thermometer chart in Excel using specific numbers and industry data!

Overview of Thermometer Charts

Thermometer charts are a specific type of data visualization that illustrates how close you are to achieving a target. For example, if you set a fundraising goal of $10,000 and have raised $7,500, a thermometer chart visually conveys that 75% of the goal has been achieved. According to industry data, visual aids like this can increase report engagement by up to 80%, making it imperative to incorporate them effectively in presentations.

Steps for Creating a Thermometer Chart in Excel

1. Establish Your Data Sets

The first step I follow is establishing the data sets. For instance, if my goal is $20,000 for a charity event and I¡¯ve raised $12,000, I can set up my Excel sheet with the following:
– Goal: $20,000
– Current Value: $12,000
– Remaining Amount: $8,000 (calculated as Goal – Current Value). This gives me the foundation needed to create a thermometer chart.

2. Determine the Chart’s Input Numbers

I then analyze the total values¡ªmy maximum value is $20,000, and my current value is $12,000. This will help determine how to align the visual steps in my thermometer chart. It’s simple arithmetic that lays down the groundwork, but crucial for clarity!

3. Create a Stacked Column Chart

To visualize my data, I select the data and navigate to the ¡°Insert¡± tab in Excel. From there, I choose “Column Chart,” then opt for ¡°Stacked Column.¡± The immediate results are delightful as they begin to visually solidify my progress towards the $20,000 goal!

4. Stack the Data Series

I stack the data series next, arranging them so that the current value sits atop the remaining amount. This step is pivotal because it helps showcase the achieved versus the unachieved amounts clearly. It¡¯s satisfying to see the visual separation of these values!

5. Change the Marker Colors

To make the chart pop, I delve into customizing colors. I typically use green for the current value (representing what has been achieved) and light gray for the remaining amount. These colors create a stark contrast, making sure the chart sends a clear message about the progress.

6. Add the Data Label

Next, I click on the column representing my current value, then right-click and select “Add Data Labels.” This way, I can show exactly how much has been raised ($12,000)¡ªthe actual number helps add credibility to the chart!

7. Reposition the Data Label

For clarity, I double-click the data label to reposition it neatly within the column. A well-placed label enhances readability, ensuring viewers don¡¯t misinterpret the progress made toward the $20,000 target.

8. Change the “Target Revenue” Axis

Adjusting the target revenue axis requires me to right-click the target axis and ensure it reflects my $20,000 goal. This adjustment is vital because it ensures that the overall chart represents the intended financial goals accurately.

9. Modify the Second and Primary Axis

I usually inspect both the primary and secondary axes to ensure they were formatted to reflect the right increments. It might seem trivial, but a visually coherent chart fosters understanding and keeps the audience engaged.

10. Change the Number Format

Next, I enhance the presentation by right-clicking on the numbers within the chart and selecting “Number Format.” I often use currency format since raising funds is all about monetary goals. This clarification adds professionalism!

11. Remove Titles and Chart Details

To prevent clutter, I remove unnecessary titles and labels. Keeping my thermometer chart clean and straightforward lets the significant data shine through, making it more impactful.

12. Change Gap Widths for the Primary and Secondary Axis

Lastly, I adjust the gap widths to ensure a sleek appearance. Narrowing the gaps makes the chart look more cohesive and visually appealing throughout the presentation.

13. Insert the Thermometer Bulb

For added flair, I like to insert a decorative bulb at the bottom, resembling the typical thermometer design; I use shapes from the ¡°Insert¡± tab for this. It¡¯s a small touch, but it gives an authentic look to the thermometer chart!

Dynamic Thermometer Chart with Different Colors

Using Conditional Formatting

For added dynamism, I leverage conditional formatting to color my thermometer differently as I reach new milestones. For instance, I might configure the chart to turn green once I hit the $15,000 mark, signaling success. This visual cue instantly communicates not just progress but also celebration!

Application of Thermometer Chart in Excel Dashboard Reporting

Visualizing Progress Towards Goals

Incorporating a thermometer chart in my Excel dashboard offers an incredible way to visualize progress. For example, if I¡¯m managing a team¡¯s sales and we collectively aim for $100,000 for the quarter, seeing $60,000 already achieved on the chart adds that emotional commitment. It enhances collaboration and drives motivation¡ªdoing wonders to unify our efforts toward achieving our goals!

Things to Keep in Mind with Excel Thermometer Charts

Best Practices for Clarity

I¡¯ve learned that simplicity reigns when creating these thermometer charts. Use straightforward data labels, avoid overcrowding with excessive text or images, and employ colors that enhance understanding versus distract. A clutter-free chart ensures that everyone walks away with a clear understanding of what¡¯s been achieved.

Conclusion

Recap of Key Steps

Creating a thermometer chart in Excel is a rewarding task that enhances data visualization. From arranging clear data sets to crafting an aesthetically pleasing chart with markers, every detail contributes to a visually strong narrative. Visually appealing charts like these not only capture attention but also inspire action, making them a powerful asset in any reporting toolkit.

FAQ

How to make a thermometer chart in Excel?

Create a thermometer chart in Excel by establishing data sets, inserting a stacked column chart, and customizing colors and labels to effectively display progress toward your goal.

How to make a fever chart in Excel?

To create a fever chart in Excel, utilize line graphs to show temperature progression over time, maintaining clear labeling for easy understanding of changes.

How to make a temperature chart?

Create a temperature chart in Excel by plotting specific temperature data against corresponding time intervals, using a line graph for better insights into trends.

How do you create a temperature in Excel?

You can create temperature data in Excel by inputting your measurements into cells, then utilizing graphs such as line or bar graphs for effective visualization of temperature fluctuations.