How to Add Data Table in an Excel Chart (4 Quick Methods)

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In this article, I will discuss the details of the data table in the Excel chart. Basically, in Excel, we show a data table in a chart so that we can analyze data conveniently. Besides, data tables can be very useful if the reader wants to see the exact source of data along with a graphical display. Usually, data tables are displayed beneath an Excel chart.


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4 Methods for Data Table in Excel Chart

1. Add Data Table From Chart Design Tab in Excel

We can add a data table in an excel chart using the ‘Chart Design’ tab from the Excel Ribbon. These methods are simple and quick. So, let’s see how to add a data table using the Chart Layout group of the Chart Design tab.

1.1. Show Data Table Using ‘Quick Layout’ Option

There are two options available in the Chart Layout group to add data tables in Excel. First, we will discuss the Quick Layout option.

Steps:

  • First, click on the chart and go to Chart Design > Quick Layout. Next, choose a default chart layout that includes a data table.

Show Data Table Using ‘Quick Layout’ Option

  • As a result, you will get the chart containing the data table.

Read More: How to Group Data in Excel Chart (2 Suitable Methods)


1.2. Use the ‘Add Chart Element’ Option to Show Data Tables 

Alternatively, you can add a data table using the Add Chart Element Option. The steps involved are described below.

Steps:

  • Initially, click on anywhere in the chart area.

Use the ‘Add Chart Element’ Option to Show Data Tables 

  • Next, go to Chart Design > Add Chart Element > Data Table > With Legend Keys. You can choose the No Legend Keys option instead if you want.

Use the ‘Add Chart Element’ Option to Show Data Tables 

  • Consequently, you will see that a data table is added below the chart.

Read More: How to Edit Chart Data in Excel (5 Suitable Examples)


2. Show/Hide Data Table by Clicking the Plus (+) Sign of Excel Chart

You can show or hide data tables in charts just by clicking on the chart. In this method, we will use the plus (+) sign in the chart area to display the data tables.

Steps:

  • Click anywhere in the chart and you will see the plus (+) sign at the top right corner of the chart. Now, click on the plus sign and check the Data Table option from the Chart Elements. Eventually, you will see a data table displayed on the chart.

Show/Hide Data Table by Clicking the Plus (+) Sign of Excel Chart

  • Similarly, by unchecking the Data Table option, you can hide the source data from the chart.

Read More: How to Change Data Source in Excel Chart (3 Useful Examples)


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3. Add Extra Data Series to Data Table but Not in Chart

Sometimes, you may need to add an extra row in the data table row. In that case, the extra data series will be displayed in the chart too. However, if you want to show the extra series in the data table but not in the chart, follow the below steps.

Steps:

  • Firstly, select the source data and then go to Insert and choose a recommended charts option. I have chosen the 2-D Column.

Add Extra Data Series to Data Table but Not in  Chart

  • As a consequence, here you will get the below chart.

  • Secondly, show data tables from the Chart Elements. Remember, choose the No Legend Keys option from the Data Table.

Add Extra Data Series to Data Table but Not in  Chart

  • Thirdly, right-click on the column which you do not want to show on the chart and choose the Format Data Series option.

Add Extra Data Series to Data Table but Not in  Chart

  • Next, the Format Data Series window will show up. Now, click go to Series Options: Fill & Line. Then, expand the Fill tab and click on the No fill option.

Add Extra Data Series to Data Table but Not in  Chart

  • Subsequently, the following will be the result. But, the extra legend key is still there. So, we have to remove it now.

Add Extra Data Series to Data Table but Not in  Chart

  • After that, go to Chart Design > Add Chart Element > Legend > None.

  • Finally, we got an extra data series on the data table but the column for that data series is not shown in the chart.

Read More: How to Select Data for a Chart in Excel (2 Ways)


4. Format Data Table in Excel Chart

Unfortunately, there is not much formatting available for data tables in excel. Still, you can format some features such as Fill, Border, Shadow, Glow, Soft Edges, 3-D Format, Data Table Borders, etc.

To format data tables in Excel, follow the below steps.

Steps:

  • First, click on a chart and go to Chart Design > Add Chart Element > Data Table > More Data Table Options.

Format Data Table in Excel Chart

  • Next, the Format Data Table window will show up. Now, format the data table as you require.

Read More: How to Delete a Data Table in Excel (4 Easy Ways)


Conclusion

In the above article, I have tried to discuss the methods elaborately. Hopefully, these methods and explanations will be enough to solve your problems. Please let me know if you have any queries.


Further Readings

Hosne Ara

Hosne Ara

Hi, This is Hosne Ara. Currently, I do write for ExcelDemy. I have a long experience working with different industries and I have seen how vast the scope of Microsoft Excel is. So, eventually, I started to write articles on Excel and VBA. Basically, my articles are targeted to help people who are working in Excel. By profession, I am an Engineer. Materials and Metallurgical Engineering is my major. Besides, I am a certified Project Manager (PMP) too. I have worked with Power Plant and IT industry earlier. As a person, I am detail-oriented and love doing research. Establishing a greener world is one of my mottos.

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