Ever wanted to highlight maximum value in charts? Then this tip is for you.
Sample data – Highlighting max values in Charts
Let’s say you have some data like this. If you make a chart, you get the output shown to right.
To highlight values, just add extra series
Now the fun part begins. To highlight values in Excel charts, we simply need to add extra series with the values you want to highlight. Let’s say you want to highlight the product with maximum units sold. Add an extra column to calculate the values, as shown below.
Now, our chart becomes this:
But we just want one series, not two!!!
While this highlights max value in a different color, it doesn’t quite cut it. We just need to remove the original value.
Or, we could simply overlap one series on top of another, like layering.
Select the chart series and go to format series (Click on the series, press CTRL+1).
Now, set up series overlap to 100% and your maximum value is highlighted.
That is all. In just a few minutes and clicks, your chart highlights maximum value.
Another example – Line chart with maximum value highlighted
Here is another example of this technique. This time with a line chart.
Apply this idea for other situations too…
You can apply this technique to highlight various kinds of things, like:
- Minimum values
- Above average values
- Values that meet certain target
- User selection values
FREE Download – Sample file for this tip
Click here to download sample file with few types of highlighted charts. Examine the data, formulas and chart settings to learn more.
Highlight maximum value in Excel charts – Video tutorial
More ways to customize Excel charts
This is one of the many powerful but easy techniques for working with Excel charts. Here are a few of my favorite tips on charting. Check them out to learn more.
Add a reference line to charts
Create info-graphics with shape fill options
Forecasting using Excel charts
7 Responses to “Build models & dashboards faster with Watch Window”
yes, I use watches in excel vb
Dear Chandoo,
This is a quite useful for myself. I highly appreciate your efforts for acquainting us with this value adding and time saving tip.
I'll admit it, I never saw this feature before. I was familiar with using Watch Window in VB, but not in workbook. I'll definitely use this in future when building dashboards!
it was always great reading your blog, one thing that i want to know, which tool you are using to create such gif image?
it was also a nice post,,,,,, sir
Hello Sir,
Really very nice post. I didn't use this features in past. But now going to use it..
Thanks a lot for every time come up with something new..
Thanks
Very Nice post sir.
Every Time posting something new.. Thanks a lot