Excel Tip of the Day
Perform what-if analysis by dragging chart points
Although you likely use charts most often to analyze existing data, you can also use them to project hypothetical results. Just as changing the source data in a worksheet cell adjusts the graphical representation shown in the chart, manually moving charted data points adjusts the underlying data. To see this firsthand, enter the headings 2001 and 2002 in cells B1 and C1. Then, in the range A2:A5, enter the row headings North, South, East, and West. Finally, enter some random numbers in range B2:C5 to complete the sample data.
At this point, select the data range and click the Chart Wizard button. When the Wizard opens, click the Finish button to generate a standard column chart. Then, click on one of the columns, which will select the entire data series. Wait a moment, so as not to accidentally double-click, and then click on the column again. Now only the column you clicked on is selected. Click and drag the sizing handle found on the column's top edge up or down. As you do so, a label appears to show the value that the resized column represents. When you release the mouse button you'll see that the related value in the worksheet cell has changed accordingly. Note that although we used a column chart in this example, you can apply this technique to other chart types as well.
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