Ten Chart Design Principles
Source: Excel Dashboards and Reports for Dummies, 3rd Edition
Source: Excel Dashboards and Reports for Dummies, 3rd Edition
1. Avoid Fancy Formatting
-Don't apply background colors to the Chart area or Plot area.
-Don't use 3D charts or 3D effects.
-Don't apply fancy effects such as gradients, pattern fills, shadows, glow, soft edges, and other formatting.
-Don't try to enhance your charts with clip art or pictures.
2. Skip the Unnecessary Chart Junk
-Remove gridlines.
-Remove borders.
-Skip the trend lines.
-Avoid data label overload.
-Don't show a legend if you don't have to.
-Remove any axis that doesn't provide value.
3. Format Large Numbers Where Possible
4. Use Data Tables Instead of Data Labels
5. Make Effective Use of Chart Titles
6. Sort Your Data before Charting
7. Limit the Use of Pie Charts (for dashboard reporting)
8. Don't Be Afraid to Parse Data into Separate Charts
9. Maintain Appropriate Aspect Ratios
10. Don't Be Afraid to Use Something Other Than a Chart
-Don't apply background colors to the Chart area or Plot area.
-Don't use 3D charts or 3D effects.
-Don't apply fancy effects such as gradients, pattern fills, shadows, glow, soft edges, and other formatting.
-Don't try to enhance your charts with clip art or pictures.
2. Skip the Unnecessary Chart Junk
-Remove gridlines.
-Remove borders.
-Skip the trend lines.
-Avoid data label overload.
-Don't show a legend if you don't have to.
-Remove any axis that doesn't provide value.
3. Format Large Numbers Where Possible
4. Use Data Tables Instead of Data Labels
5. Make Effective Use of Chart Titles
6. Sort Your Data before Charting
7. Limit the Use of Pie Charts (for dashboard reporting)
8. Don't Be Afraid to Parse Data into Separate Charts
9. Maintain Appropriate Aspect Ratios
10. Don't Be Afraid to Use Something Other Than a Chart
Good for chart templates can be found here http://charts.poweredtemplate.com/powerpoint-diagrams-charts/ppt-pie-charts/0/index.html. These design principles are very useful, but it needs time. If you do not have enough time, it is best to download a ready-made template. Good luck everyone.
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