When you finish collecting your data (see Data Chart), it is important to present your data in a way that is easy for others to understand.  One excellent way to do this is to create a graph of your data.  You can create it using graph paper and pencil, or you can create one using Excel. 

Here's how to create a chart using Excel:

1. Open Microsoft Excel on your computer:

2. Using your completed data chart, copy your data from your data chart to the Excel worksheet:

3. Next, click on the Chart Wizard icon:

4. A new window will open. Choose Column for your chart type.  Click Next.

5. Then next window will ask you which information you want to include on in your graph. Highlight the data from your chart that you want in your graph (drag your mouse over the boxes that contain your data) :

6.  And like magic you see a preview of your chart! 

Now all you have to do is to write the labels. 

7. Press next to go to the next window.

Now type in your Chart Title, (which is your independent variable vs. your dependent variable)

Write your Independent Variable here in the Category (X) axis:

Your Dependent Variable and your unit of measure here in the Value (Y) axis:

8.  The great thing is that as you type in your label, you can see them previewed on your screen

9.  Only one more step to go!  Click next and go to the last window.  Here you need to save your new graph as a sheet. 

Click Finish and you can see your finished graph.

You can then print it out and attach it to the graph page in your folder.  Don't forget to save your work!