Please Note: This article is written for users of the following Microsoft Excel versions: 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003. If you are using a later version (Excel 2007 or later), this tip may not work for you. For a version of this tip written specifically for later versions of Excel, click here: Turning the Legend On and Off.
Written by Allen Wyatt (last updated March 21, 2026)
This tip applies to Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003
When you create a chart in Excel, the Wizard that you follow may create a chart legend, depending on the type of chart you are using. You are not limited to the Wizard's decision, however. You have complete control over whether a legend is displayed on your chart. Follow these steps:
Figure 1. The Chart Options dialog box.
ExcelTips is your source for cost-effective Microsoft Excel training. This tip (2969) applies to Microsoft Excel 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003. You can find a version of this tip for the ribbon interface of Excel (Excel 2007 and later) here: Turning the Legend On and Off.
Dive Deep into Macros! Make Excel do things you thought were impossible, discover techniques you won't find anywhere else, and create powerful automated reports. Bill Jelen and Tracy Syrstad help you instantly visualize information to make it actionable. You’ll find step-by-step instructions, real-world case studies, and 50 workbooks packed with examples and solutions. Check out Microsoft Excel 2019 VBA and Macros today!
Charts serve a purpose, and sometimes that purpose is temporary. If you want to get rid of a chart, here's how to do it.
Discover MoreDisplaying information using charts in Excel is easy and there are a variety of chart styles to choose from. Integrated ...
Discover MoreWhen creating charts that will be used by other people, you may need to take some liberties with the presentation of your ...
Discover MoreFREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)
Got a version of Excel that uses the menu interface (Excel 97, Excel 2000, Excel 2002, or Excel 2003)? This site is for you! If you use a later version of Excel, visit our ExcelTips site focusing on the ribbon interface.
FREE SERVICE: Get tips like this every week in ExcelTips, a free productivity newsletter. Enter your address and click "Subscribe."
Copyright © 2026 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Please Note:
This article is written for users of the following Microsoft Excel versions: 97, 2000, 2002, and 2003. If you are using a later version (Excel 2007 or later), this tip may not work for you. For a version of this tip written specifically for later versions of Excel, click here:
Comments