How to Create Charts from Excel Data (Step-by-Step Guide)

Excel is great for organizing and analyzing data—but when it comes to creating charts that look good in presentations, it often falls short. In this guide, you'll learn how to turn your Excel data into presentation-ready charts in just a few minutes.

Step 1: Prepare Your Data

Before creating a chart, make sure your data is organized correctly. You need at least two columns:

• Labels – The categories or names (e.g., months, products, regions)
• Values – The numbers you want to visualize

For example, if you're charting monthly sales, your spreadsheet might look like:

Month      | Sales
-----------|--------
January    | 45000
February   | 52000
March      | 48000
April      | 61000

Tip: Remove any empty rows or summary rows (like "Total") before exporting—they can confuse the chart maker.

Step 2: Export Your Data (Optional)

You can upload Excel files (.xlsx, .xls) directly to PrettyChart. However, exporting to CSV gives you cleaner control over which data gets imported, especially if your spreadsheet has multiple tabs or complex formatting.

To export as CSV from Excel:

1. Click File → Save As
2. Choose CSV (Comma delimited) as the format
3. Save the file

Step 3: Upload to PrettyChart

Open PrettyChart and upload your file. You have several options:

• Drag & drop your file onto the upload area
• Click "Upload" to select a file
• Paste data directly with Ctrl+V (or Cmd+V on Mac)

PrettyChart supports 28 file formats including CSV, Excel, TSV, Numbers, and OpenDocument spreadsheets.

Alternative methods: Already have a chart image? PrettyChart can extract data from it automatically using AI. You can also draw a chart freehand and let the AI interpret your sketch.

Step 4: Map Your Columns

After uploading, PrettyChart automatically detects which column contains your labels and which contains your values. In most cases, you don't need to do anything—the AI gets it right.

If you want to adjust the mapping manually, simply click on the column dropdowns to select different columns for labels or values.

Step 5: Choose a Chart Type

Select the chart type that best fits your data:

• Horizontal Bar – Best for comparing categories with long labels
• Vertical Bar – Classic comparison chart, good for time-based data
• Line Chart – Perfect for showing trends over time
• Pie Chart – Shows parts of a whole (use sparingly, max 5-6 slices)
• Donut Chart – Like pie, but with space for a center metric

Rule of thumb: If you're comparing values, use bars. If you're showing change over time, use lines. If you're showing proportions, use pie or donut.

See all 18 chart types in our complete guide →

Step 6: Customize Your Design

This is where PrettyChart shines. Unlike Excel's basic styling options, you get access to:

• 30 professional templates – From minimalist to neon, glass to 3D effects
• 30 color themes – 18 dark and 12 light curated palettes
• 45+ light effects – Neon glow, god rays, aurora, lens flare, and duotone overlays
• Background options – Solid colors, gradients, patterns, or 130+ scenic images

Experiment with different combinations until you find a look that matches your brand or presentation style.

Step 7: Export Your Chart

When you're happy with your chart, click the Export button. Choose your format:

• PNG – Best for presentations and web use
• SVG – Vector format, scales to any size
• PDF – Perfect for print and formal documents

You can also choose from 10 aspect ratios including 16:9 for presentations, square for Instagram, vertical for Pinterest, and more.

All exports are high-resolution and ready to use immediately.

Pro Tips for Better Charts

1. Keep it simple – Don't try to show too much data in one chart. If you have 20+ data points, consider splitting into multiple charts.
2. Use consistent colors – If you're creating multiple charts, use the same theme across all of them.
3. Add to Slides – Use the "Add to Slides" feature to build a complete presentation deck with your charts.
4. Try KPI Cards – For single metrics like revenue or growth rate, KPI Cards are more impactful than charts.

Frequently Asked Questions