An area chart is a graphic representation of data that is plotted using several lines, like a line chart, and then filling the space under them with a color. An area chart can be overlapped, where data is plotted using the same values on the Y-axis, or stacked, where element amounts are placed above the previous one.
The area chart shown in the chart above is overlapped and represents a quantity of inventory received over time. It visually expresses when inventory was received (height of line) and total inventory received (filled area). This data is made even easier to understand with the addition of labels for each of the sections of the area chart.
This same data can be shown on a stacked area chart:
Chart, Point chart, Spreadsheet terms
Related information
- How to create a chart or graph in Excel, Calc, or Sheets.
- How to add, modify, and remove a chart in PowerPoint.
