How to Change Date Range in Excel Chart (3 Methods)

Dataset Overview

Let’s take a closer look at our dataset. It includes two columns: “Date” and “Sales.” This data is visualized using a column chart. We’ll use this dataset to illustrate the various methods.

How to Change Date Range in Excel Chart

Method 1 – Use Format Axis Feature

Right-click on the axis that contains the dates in your chart.
Select Format Axis.

The Format Axis task pane will appear on the right side of the screen.
In the Minimum section, enter the start date of the desired date range.
In the Maximum section, enter the end date of the desired date range.

The date range in your Excel chart will now be adjusted according to your preference.

To revert to the original date range, click the Reset button.

Below you can see the chart as it was before changing the date range.

Method 2 – Add a Filter

Select the cell where you want to add the filter (e.g., the Date column).
Go to the Data tab.
Click on Filter.

A filter icon will appear next to the Date column.
Click the filter button.
Choose Date Filters from the drop-down menu.
Select the specific option (e.g., This Week) to adjust the date range.

Your chart will now display data from the chosen date range.

To remove the filter and revert to the original date range, click the filter button again and choose Clear Filter From ‘Date’.

Below you can see that the filter is removed from the date range in Excel.

Method 3 – Use a Pivot Chart Timeline

Step 1 – Create a Pivot Chart in Excel

First, select the cell range (e.g., B4:C14) that you want to use for the Pivot Chart.
Go to the Insert tab on the Ribbon.
Choose PivotChart.

In the Create PivotChart dialog box, select Existing Workbook.
Specify the location where you want the Pivot table.
Click OK.

The PivotChart Fields task pane will appear on the right side of the screen.
Drag the desired fields into the Axis area (e.g., Date) and the Values area (e.g., Sales).

You’ve now inserted the Pivot Chart into your Excel sheet.

Step 2 – Add a Timeline to the Pivot Chart

Select the Pivot Chart.

Go to the PivotChart Analyze tab.
Click Insert Timeline.

In the Insert Timelines dialog box, check the Date option.
Click OK.

The Timeline will appear.
Choose the month you want to view data for (e.g., OCT for October Sales).

You can see the changed date range below:

You can also explore data by Days, Years, or Quarters.
To do that, click on the marked button and then select the option as per your need.