How to make a thermometer chart in excel

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

How to Make a Thermometer Chart in Excel

Creating a thermometer chart in Excel can be a game-changer when I need to visually represent data, especially progress toward goals. For instance, while working on a fundraising project with a target of $10,000, I wanted to show how much we’ve raised as we approached these goals. The thermometer chart immediately caught everyone’s attention. It¡¯s engaging, easy to understand, and adds a colorful element to my presentations. Now, let’s delve into the detailed steps of making one!

Preparation of Data

Establish Your Data Sets

Preparing my data is crucial for creating an effective thermometer chart in Excel. Here’s how I do it:

First, I determine the total target. For example, in our fundraiser, it was $10,000.
Next, I gather the actual amount raised so far. Let’s say it¡¯s $6,500.
Finally, I calculate the remaining amount, which is $3,500.

With these numbers established, I can now proceed to visualizing this data in the chart.

Determine the Chart’s Input Numbers

For my thermometer chart, I need the following input numbers:

Actual value: $6,500 (the amount raised).
Target value: $10,000 (our goal).
Percentage: I calculate that we have achieved 65% of our fundraising goal.

This clear breakdown ensures that my data is ready for impressive visualization using Excel¡¯s charting tools.

Creating a Thermometer Chart

Steps to Create a Thermometer Chart in Excel

Now that I have prepared my data, here are the steps I follow to create the thermometer chart in Excel:

Create a Stacked Column Chart

First, I enter my data into Excel. For instance, in one cell, I enter $6,500 (raised) and in another, I enter $10,000 (target).
Next, I select the data and navigate to the ‘Insert’ tab.
Under ¡®Charts¡¯, I choose ¡®Column Chart¡¯ and select ¡®Stacked Column¡¯.

This chart begins by stacking the actual amount raised against the target, setting the stage for the thermometer effect.

Stack the Data Series

To mimic a thermometer’s gradient, I stack my series. This visual layering helps represent progress directly. For example, I stack $6,500 on top of the remaining $3,500 to illustrate the complete $10,000 target.

Change the Marker Colors

I customize the chart for clarity and visual impact by changing marker colors. I typically use:

Red for the filled part representing the raised amount.
Gray for the unfilled portion, indicating remaining funds needed.

These color choices make it easy for viewers to grasp the data at a glance.

Add the Data Label

Adding data labels to my chart enhances comprehension. I do this by:

Right-clicking on the data series and selecting ‘Add Data Labels’.
Formatting the label to show ‘$6,500’ on the filled part of the thermometer chart.

This inclusion ensures that viewers understand exactly what the numbers represent.

Reposition the Data Label

I often find that repositioning the data label holds significant value. I place the label at the top of the column to instantly draw attention to the achieved goal.

Change the “Target Revenue” Axis

For clarity in my thermometer chart, I adjust the Y-axis to the target value of $10,000, which visually reinforces where we are aiming.

Modify the Primary and Secondary Axis

It¡¯s important that the primary axis reflects current values and the secondary axis shows percentages. I make these adjustments easily through the Chart Tools in Excel.

Change the Number Format

Changing the number format is a small step with big impact. I format the axis numbers as currency, so everything is represented in dollars, making it relatable.

Remove Titles and Chart Details

Simplicity keeps the focus on the data. I remove extraneous titles and labels that do not add value to the chart, ensuring the thermometer¡¯s message is clear:

The actual amount raised.
The target amount.

Change Gap Widths for the Primary and Secondary Axis

Adjusting the gap widths can create more visual impact. I typically reduce the gap widths of both columns to give it that thermometer look.

Insert the Thermometer Bulb

To round off my chart, I sometimes add a bulb shape at the bottom to accentuate the thermometer appearance. This small detail brings the whole representation together!

Dynamic Thermometer Chart Options

Using Different Colors for Data Representation

Color coding is essential; I often switch between styles for different scenarios. For example, I use green to represent completed fundraisers and red for future projects. This dynamic approach creates an intuitive understanding within my presentations.

Customizing Your Chart for Presentation

Tailoring the thermometer chart¡¯s design to align with brand colors can boost engagement. For instance, I often use my company¡¯s palette of blue and orange to create a professional and appealing visual.

Things to Remember About Thermometer Charts

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When creating a thermometer chart in Excel, here are mistakes I avoid:

Overcomplicating data representation.
Including irrelevant details that distract from the main message.
Using too many colors which lead to confusion.

Sticking to simple, clear data points is a critical practice for me.

Best Practices for Accurate Representation

To maintain accuracy and clarity, I always check to ensure the data aligns with the chart’s visual representation. For example, if my goal is to raise $10,000, I double-check that the portions accurately reflect this value before presenting.

Applications of Thermometer Charts in Reporting

Using Thermometer Charts for Goal Tracking

I’ve effectively used thermometer charts in various sectors, from tracking sales targets to fundraising milestones. For instance, during a recent campaign where our goal was $15,000, the thermometer chart provided a striking visual of our achievement at $12,000, reinforcing our progress and motivating the team.

Monitoring Risk in Project Management

In project management, I¡¯ve utilized thermometer charts to track completion rates against set deadlines. If our project’s completion rate is at 75% while the deadline approaches, this visual cue becomes a valuable tool for realigning efforts and ensuring we remain on track.

Conclusion

Recap of Key Steps

To summarize, creating a thermometer chart in Excel involves establishing clear data sets, precise steps in chart creation, and dynamic adjustments to effectively communicate progress. By focusing on these elements, I ensure my audience can easily grasp the important messages.

Final Tips for Effective Use

As I wrap up, I encourage you to keep your thermometer charts straightforward, visually appealing, and tailored to your audience’s understanding. Leverage this tool effectively, and it can enhance your presentations tremendously!

To add a thermometer chart in Excel, create a stacked column chart using your fundraising data and follow the customization steps I¡¯ve outlined in this article to visually represent your goals.

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