How to Create 3D Scatter Plot in Excel (with Easy Steps)

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In this article, we’ll explore 3D scatter plot in Excel. You will learn a step-by-step procedure to display a 3D scatter chart. Especially these graphs uncover patterns we might miss in regular charts.

Traditional charts might not tell the whole story when dealing with complex data. That’s where 3D scatter plots come to the rescue! It’s like seeing data in a 3D picture. This becomes useful in various fields, like science, engineering, or business.

Whether you are a student, teacher or scientist, this context must improve your chart skills. So, let’s get started.

3D Scatter Plot in Excel


What Is a 3D Scatter Plot?

A 3D scatter plot is a graph that shows data in 3D. It’s like a regular scatter plot but with an extra dimension. Instead of points on a flat surface. It uses dots in 3D space. This type of plot helps us see patterns more effectively.


How to Create a 3D Scatter Plot in Excel: 5 Easy Steps

Step 1: Prepare a Dataset to Plot 3D Scatter

The first and foremost task is to create a data model to create a 3D scatter plot in Excel. To illustrate that, consider B, C and D columns titled Month, Sales, and Revenue.

Prepare a Dataset to Plot 3D Scatter


Step 2: Insert a Scatter Chart

Secondly, select range B4:D16 >> go to the Insert tab >> expand Insert Scatter.

Select intended range and insert a scatter plot in excel

Now, click on Scatter to insert a scatter chart.

Click on Scatter to insert a Scatter Chart


Step 3: Adjust Scatter Chart Settings

To begin, right-click on the chart area >> choose Select Data from the context menu.

Right-Click on Chart Area and choose Select Data

Consequently, the Select Data Source window will open. Click on the Sales (in Unit) series >> choose Remove.

Select sales and click Remove from the Select Data Source window

Next, choose the Revenue (in dollars) series >> click on Edit.

Click on Revenue and choose Edit from the Select Data Source window

Eventually, the Edit Series window will pop up. Insert sales data >> hit OK.

Insert sales data in Series x Values on the Edit Series window

To conclude this part, we must hit OK again from the Select Data Source window.

Click OK again from the Select Data Source window


Step 4: Format Data Series in Scatter Chart

Now, click on a Data Series >> press the Ctrl+1 keys.

Click on a Data Series and press Ctrl+1

As a result, the Format Data Series pane will open. Click on the Effects icon >> expand 3-D Format.

Click on Effect and Choose 3D format From the Format Data Series pane

Later, click on Top bevel >> choose Round.

Click on Top Bevel and select Round to plot 3d scatter chart

Next, choose Fill & Line >> click on Marker >> expand Marker Options >> check Built-in and increase the size.

Choose FIll & Line followed by Marker to resize bevel to plot 3d scatter chart


Step 5: Save and Display 3D Scatter Plot

Lastly, place the 3D scatter chart on the right side of the dataset >> Save the workbook.

Place the chart on the right side of your data and save the workbook


Things to Remember

  • Scatter plots show the degree to which two variables are correlated.
  • It should be noted there are two variables in the scatter chart X and Y.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a 3D plot?

A 3D plot is a graph that shows data in three dimensions. It allows us to explore relationships and patterns more easily.

  • What is the use of a 3d scatter plot?

A 3d scatter chart is handy in scientific research and engineering. It enables us to identify clusters, and trends and provide deeper insights. Thus the 3D scatter graph helps in decision-making processes.

  • How do you make a scatter plot with 3 Excel data sets?

We can make a scatter plot with 3 sets of data in Excel. First, put your data into three separate columns. Then, select all the data and Insert a typical scatter plot. Next, right-click on Chart Area, and click on Select Data. Later, click Add to add each set of data one by one.


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Conclusion

In summary, creating a 3D scatter plot in Excel is essential for showing hidden patterns in a dataset. You have undoubtedly learned how to plot a 3D scatter chart in Excel. Visit our ExcelDemy website to learn more about Excel. You can also post your Excel problem on the ExcelDemy Forum.

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Lutfor Rahman Shimanto
Lutfor Rahman Shimanto

Lutfor Rahman Shimanto, BSc, Information Technology, Jahangirnagar University, Bangladesh, has worked with the ExcelDemy project for over a year. He has written 50+ articles and provided solutions of 100+ comments for ExcelDemy. Currently, he works as an Excel & VBA Developer and provides support and solutions in the ExcelDemy Forum. He has solved 100+ ExcelDemy Forum problems. His work and learning interests are in developing various Excel & VBA and Desktop applications. Outside of work, he enjoys Chess... Read Full Bio

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