Changing the Pattern Used in a Data Series

When you create a chart with Excel, you typically use the Chart Wizard to create the chart basic, and then make changes to prepare the final chart exactly as you want it. One of the things that Excel allows you to control is the pattern used to fill the graphic representation of a data series.

Normally, series are presented as appropriate for the type of chart you are creating, and then filled with varying colors. For most charts this may be more than adequate. However, you may want to change the pattern used in a data series, instead of using the solid color used by default. To do this, follow these steps if you are using a version of Excel prior to Excel 2007:

1. Create your chart as you normally would.
2. Click on the data series that you want to customize. There should be selection handles that appear around the data series elements.
3. Choose Selected Data Series from the Format menu. Excel displays the Format Data Series dialog box.
4. Make sure the Patterns tab is selected. (Click here to see a related figure.)
5. Click on the Fill Effects button. Excel displays the Fill Effects dialog box.
6. Make sure the Pattern tab is selected. (Click here to see a related figure.)
7. From the selections in the dialog box, choose the pattern you want applied to the data series.
8. Click on OK to close the Fill Effects dialog box.
9. Click on OK to close the Format Data Series dialog box.

It is interesting to note that in Excel 2007 there is no formatting option to fill a data series with a particular pattern. Instead, you can only apply colors, fills, or gradients to the data series. You do this by simply selecting the data series you want to affect and then using the Format tab. Click the Shape Fill tool in the Shape Styles group and you can see what your options are.