plotting time
 

What is the best way to plot time series data? For instance, I have plotted
columns of data against time using "X-Y (Scatter)" chart instead of "line"
chart. Is one preferred over the other? Also, when adding additional data
to the chart, I can use "Chart-Add Data", or I can simply copy a column and
use "Paste Special" to paste it into the chart. Is there no difference
between the methods?

In general I prefer XY charts, although a Line chart provides a nice
axis, if you want a tick on the first of each month, say, and the months
to be spaced according to the number of days in them. If you're doing a
stock chart and want to omit the weekends from the chart, you have to do
it with a line chart, and force a category, not time scale, axis.

I don't use Chart menu Add Data, because frankly you just reminded me
it's there. I use Copy - Paste Special most of the time, or I use Chart
menu Source Data Series tab to add series one by one, or I copy an
existing series formula, select the plot area, click in the formula bar,
then paste and edit the formula. This last method is nice if your data
ranges are on other sheets, and you don't want to be forced back and
forth from sheet to sheet.

- Jon
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Jon Peltier, Microsoft Excel MVP
Peltier Technical Services
Tutorials and Custom Solutions
http://PeltierTech.com/
_______


john mcmichael wrote:

What is the best way to plot time series data? For instance, I have plotted
columns of data against time using "X-Y (Scatter)" chart instead of "line"
chart. Is one preferred over the other? Also, when adding additional data
to the chart, I can use "Chart-Add Data", or I can simply copy a column and
use "Paste Special" to paste it into the chart. Is there no difference
between the methods?