How to Create a Bar Chart in MS Excel
- George Apostolov
How to Create a Bar Chart in MS Excel: step-by-step guide
Highlight the range of cells containing your data, including the labels (e.g., A1:B4).
Click on the "Insert" tab in the ribbon at the top, then select Bar Chart (it may also appear as "Column or Bar Chart").
From the dropdown, select your preferred bar chart style.
To switch the chart type, select the chart, go to the Chart Design tab, and click Change Chart Type on the right.
Select the bar chart option, hover to preview it, and click OK to insert the chart.
Now you can customize your bar chart as needed.
Quick answer: To create a bar chart in Microsoft Excel, highlight your data range, select Bar Chart from the Insert tab, and choose a preferred style. Customize the chart or switch types using the Chart Design tab.
About this Excel tutorial
Generate and customize bar charts in Excel quickly by highlighting data, inserting the chart style, and using design tools. This guide shows how to create a Bar Chart in MS Excel in 6 steps, starting with "Highlight the range of cells containing your data, including the labels (e.g., A1:B4 )" and finishing with "Now you can customize your bar chart as needed". The interactive demo above is a click-through copy of the real Excel interface, so you can rehearse each step before doing it in your own account.
Frequently asked questions
How many steps does it take to create a Bar Chart in MS Excel?
6 steps. Each one is listed in order above, and the demo highlights exactly where to click.
Can I try it without changing my own account?
Yes. Clicking through the demo doesn't touch your Excel data or settings. Once you know the flow, repeat it in your own workspace.
This tutorial is filed under Excel. Related guides: How to Create a Chart in Microsoft Excel, How To Create A Confluence Template Based On Excel Spreadsheet and How to Create a Custom Formula in MS Excel. Last reviewed 05 Oct 2026.
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