Are you looking for a way to visualize data in an interesting and impactful way? If so, then you should consider using a gauge chart. Gauge charts are a type of infographic that can help you communicate information in a clear and concise way. Keep reading to learn more!
What is a gauge chart?
So, just what is a gauge chart? A gauge chart is a graphical representation of data where the data is shown as a proportion of a whole. The most common type of gauge chart is a radial gauge, which uses a circular layout to show the data. Other types of gauge charts include linear and angular gauges.
What are the types of gauge charts?
A radial gauge is composed of two elements: a scale and a pointer. The scale is a line that extends from the center of the gauge to the edge and divides the gauge into equal parts. The pointer is a line that extends from the center of the gauge and points to the value on the scale that represents the data.
A linear gauge is composed of a scale and a slider. The scale is a line that extends from the left to the right and divides the gauge into equal parts. The slider is a line that extends from the bottom to the top and allows the user to select a value on the scale.
An angular gauge is composed of a scale and an arc. The scale is a line that extends from the center of the gauge to the edge and divides the gauge into equal parts. The arc is a curved line that connects the points on the scale that represent the data.
How do you create a gauge chart?
There are a few ways to create a gauge chart in Excel. You can use a data series to create a gauge chart, or you can use the circular gauge chart type. To create a gauge chart using a data series, you will need to create a data table with two columns. The first column will contain the data values, and the second column will contain the percentage values. You will then need to create a chart based on this data table. In the chart, select the data series, and then choose the “Gauge” type from the Chart Type drop-down list.
To create a gauge chart using the circular gauge chart type, you will first need to create a data table with two columns. The first column will contain the data values, and the second column will contain the percentage values. You will then need to create a chart based on this data table. In the chart, select the “Circular Gauge” type from the Chart Type drop-down list.
How do you interpret a gauge chart?
When looking at a gauge chart, it is important to consider what the data is representing. In general, a gauge chart is used to track progress towards a goal, or to track a specific value over time.
For example, if you are looking at a gauge chart to track your weight, you would want to consider what the “goal” is. Are you trying to lose weight, gain weight, or maintain your weight? Once you have determined the goal, you can then track your progress towards that goal on the gauge chart.
If you are looking at a gauge chart to track your stock portfolio, you would also want to consider what the “goal” is. Are you trying to make a certain amount of money, or are you trying to keep your stock portfolio within a certain range? Again, once you have determined the goal, you can then track your progress towards that goal on the gauge chart.
Overall, gauge charts are a valuable data visualization tool to track progress and performance against goals or targets. They can help to identify areas of improvement and track progress over time.