How to Create 3-Axis Graph in Excel?

Have you ever found yourself grappling with complex data sets in Excel, wondering how to effectively visualize your findings in three dimensions? Fear not, for we’re about to embark on a journey that will demystify the process of creating 3-axis graphs in Excel.

Tracking two or more key metrics to determine relationships and trends in your data using a single visualization is not easy.

Why?

Keeping track of two or fewer metrics is relatively simple because there are a ton of visualization charts that can help with this. However, if you try to squeeze more metrics into conventional charts, such as Bar Graphs, you’ll cause clutter.

Clutter is the Achilles’ heel of data storytelling because it obscures the key insights. And it can confuse your target audiences.

When the metrics to be visualized go beyond 2, you can easily get overwhelmed. Worse, you might find yourself using the wrong chart to extract insights.

This is where a 3-axis Graph Excel comes in.

This chart (above) is specifically designed to allow you to visualize more than three metrics simultaneously using its tri-dimensional axis (x, y, and z-axis).

How to make a 3-axis graph in Excel does not have to be time-intensive and stressful. We’ve rounded up some valuable tips on getting started with 3-Axis Graph Excel in this blog. In this blog, you will learn

• What is 3 Axis Graph?
• How to Make a 3-Axis Graph in Excel? Complete Step by Step Guide
• Analyzing and Interpreting Your Graph
• Troubleshooting and Common Challenges
• Real-World Examples and Applications
• When should you use 3 Axis Graph?
• Tips to Create a 3-Axis Graph in Excel That’s Compelling and Easy to Read

Before we delve right into how to get started with the 3-Axis Graph in Excel (also known as 3 Axis Graph ), let’s define the chart.

So let’s get down to it.

What is the 3 Axis Graph?

Definition: You can use a  3-axis graph to plot data points along two or more axis. A 3-axis graph uses two or more axis to display the relationships in key metrics and dimensions in your raw data.

Unlike Dual Axis (Combo Charts), data in 3-Axis Graph Excel is plotted on the 3 axis, each having different data points and values. Conversely, in a Dual Axis Chart, you can plot your data on two different y-axis: the primary and secondary y-axis and the x-axis.

Do you see where the difference between the two charts comes in?

A 3-axis graph uses two or more axis to display the relationships in key metrics and dimensions in your raw data. Essentially, you can use the 3-Axis Graph Excel to extract correlation insights from your data.

The biggest advantage of adopting this chart for your visualization strategy is that it displays tons of key insights using limited space. Besides, the 3-Axis Chart in Excel can display a lot of information without clutter.

How to make a 3-axis graph in Excel should never stress you or even consume significant amounts of your time. Keep reading to discover more.

How to Make a 3-Axis Graph in Excel? Complete Step-by-Step Guide

If Excel is your go-to data visualization tool, accessing 3 Axis Graphs is impossible.

We know Excel is a trusted data visualization tool because it’s familiar and has been there for decades. But, this spreadsheet application should not be your choice 3-Axis Graph Excel generator.

Excel does not have ready-made 3 Axis Graph templates.

We understand switching tools is not easy because you have to adjust a lot to the new one. Besides, we’re naturally wired to maintain the status quo.

This is why we’re not advocating you ditch Excel in favor of other expensive data visualization tools.

There’s an easy-to-use and amazingly affordable tool that comes as an add-in you can install in your Excel to access advanced charts, such as 3-Axis Graph Excel.

The tool we’ve been talking about all along is called ChartExpo. With ChartExpo, you can create cool Excel charts and graphs, including a 3-axis graph, both in Excel and Google Sheets. You can easily install the add-on of your choice from the following links.

Creating 3-Axis Graph in Excel

If you have not installed ChartExpo Add-in in Excel so far you can follow the guide to learn the complete steps of installing ChartExpo in Excel.

Once it is installed, you can then follow the below steps to create a 3-axis chart in Excel in a few clicks without coding:

Step 1: Setting up your Excel Sheet

• Open your Excel application.
• Open the worksheet and click the Insert button to access the My Apps option.
• Click the My Apps button and click the See All button to view ChartExpo, among other add-ins.

• Select ChartExpo add-in and click the Insert button.

Step 2: Selecting the Chart to Visualize Data in 3 Axis

• Once you click on insert it may ask you to log in. Once you are logged in, it will not ask next time. ChartExpo window will appear in front of your Excel screen.

• To visualize your data using the  3-axis graph, select the Multi-Axis Line Chart, as shown below.

• Once you select the Multi-Axis Line Chart, the chart below will pop on your screen.

Step 3: Adding 1st Axis on a Graph in Excel on Selected Data

Imagine you run a mobile dealer shop. You track various metrics, which provide you with insights into the growth of the business. Which chart would you use?

In this scenario, we’ll use the 3-Axis Graph Excel (Multi-Axis Line Chart).

Besides, we’ll add metrics progressively for you to have a clear picture of the full capabilities of this chart. We’ll use the table below for our scenario.

Year	Purchase
2015	100000
2016	60000
2017	140000
2018	120000
2019	170000
2020	130000

To get started with ChartExpo add-in, follow the steps below:

• Copy the data into your Excel to get started with ChartExpo add-in.

• Select the Excel Sheet holding the tabular data (above).
• Fill in the respective dimensions and metrics into ChartExpo’s user interface (UI). In our case, the dimension under the study is the Conversely, we have one metric, namely Sales.
• If you follow the instructions, your final chart should look like the one below.

Step 4: Adding 2nd Axis on a Graph in Excel

Let’s add another metric to our scenario. We’ll use purchase data this time. Check out the table below.

Year	Purchase	Sales
2015	100000	150000
2016	60000	100000
2017	140000	200000
2018	120000	180000
2019	170000	200000
2020	130000	180000

• Copy the data into your Excel to get started with ChartExpo add-in.
• Follow the same steps as the first Multi Axis Line Chart example.
• Finalize the task by clicking the Create Chart from the Selection button.

• Your 3-Axis Graph Excel should resemble the one below.

Step 5: Finally, Adding 3rd Axis on a Graph in Excel

Let’s add expense data to our table below, as shown.

Year	Purchase	Sales	Expenses
2015	100000	150000	50000
2016	60000	100000	30000
2017	140000	200000	100000
2018	120000	180000	80000
2019	170000	200000	90000
2020	130000	180000	40000

• Copy the data into your Excel sheet.
• Follow the same steps as the first
• Finalize the task by clicking the Create Chart from the Selection button.

• Your final chart should look like the one below.

Step 6: Expanding the 3 Axis Graph in Excel

Let’s add Profit data to our table below, as shown.

Year	Purchase	Sales	Expenses	Profit
2015	100000	150000	50000	20000
2016	60000	100000	30000	15000
2017	140000	200000	100000	22000
2018	120000	180000	80000	6000
2019	170000	200000	90000	45000
2020	130000	180000	40000	10000

• Copy the data into the Excel spreadsheet to get started with 3-Axis Graph Excel.
• Follow the same steps as the first

• Finalize the task by clicking the Create Chart from the Selection button.
• Your final chart should look like the one below.

The 3-axis Graph in Excel can visualize multiple data points for insights in a single view. In our scenario above, you can easily find out how the metrics (sales, purchases, expenses, and profit) trend over time.

Analyzing and Interpreting Your 3-Axis Graph:

Once you’ve created your 3-axis graph in Excel, the next step is to analyze and interpret the insights it reveals. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Identifying Trends: Start by examining the overall shape and direction of the data plotted on your graph. Look for trends, patterns, or anomalies that may indicate changes or correlations within your data sets.
2. Comparing Data Series: Pay attention to how different data series interact with each other on the graph. Are there any notable relationships or disparities between the variables you’ve plotted? Use color, shape, or labels to differentiate between data series and make comparisons easier.
3. Spotting Outliers: Keep an eye out for any data points that fall significantly outside the expected range or distribution. Outliers can provide valuable insights into unusual or unexpected occurrences within your data and may warrant further investigation.
4. Interpreting Axis Values: Take a closer look at the values displayed on each axis of the graph. Are the scales appropriate for the data being visualized? Consider whether adjustments to the axis ranges or intervals could provide clearer insights or better highlight trends.
5. Contextualizing Results: Remember to interpret your graph within the broader context of your research or analysis. Consider how the insights gleaned from the graph align with your research objectives, hypotheses, or real-world observations.

By carefully analyzing and interpreting your 3-axis graph, you can uncover meaningful insights that inform decision-making, identify areas for further investigation, and communicate your findings effectively to others.

Troubleshooting and Common Challenges:

While creating 3-axis graphs in Excel can be a powerful tool for visualizing data, it’s not without its challenges. Here are some common issues you may encounter and tips for troubleshooting them:

1. Data Formatting Errors: Ensure that your data is properly formatted and organized in Excel before creating your graph. Check for any missing or incorrectly entered values, and verify that all data points are in the correct format for plotting.
2. Graph Formatting Issues: If your graph appears distorted or unclear, double-check the formatting settings for your axes, labels, and data series. Adjust the formatting as needed to improve clarity and readability.
3. Scaling Problems: Pay attention to the scaling of your axes, as improper scaling can distort the appearance of your graph or obscure important trends. Experiment with different scaling options until you find the most suitable arrangement for your data.
4. Data Inconsistencies: Verify the accuracy and consistency of your data sources to ensure that your graph reflects the true underlying trends. Look for any discrepancies or anomalies that may indicate data entry errors or other issues.
5. Software Limitations: Keep in mind that Excel has certain limitations when it comes to creating complex graphs, especially with large or intricate data sets. If you encounter performance issues or find that Excel lacks the features you need, consider exploring alternative graphing tools or software solutions.

By addressing these common challenges and implementing effective troubleshooting strategies, you can overcome obstacles and create accurate, informative 3-axis graphs that effectively visualize your data.

Real-World Examples and Applications:

To illustrate the practical applications of 3-axis graphs in Excel, let’s explore some real-world examples across various industries and fields:

1. Financial Analysis: In finance, 3-axis graphs can be used to visualize the relationship between different financial indicators, such as revenue, expenses, and profit margins. By plotting these variables over time, financial analysts can identify trends, forecast future performance, and make informed investment decisions.
2. Healthcare Data Visualization: Healthcare professionals can leverage 3-axis graphs to analyze patient data and track health outcomes over time. For example, doctors might plot variables like blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body mass index to monitor patient health and assess the effectiveness of treatment plans.
3. Environmental Monitoring: Environmental scientists may use 3-axis graphs to visualize environmental data, such as temperature, precipitation, and air quality measurements. By plotting these variables spatially and temporally, researchers can identify environmental trends, assess the impact of pollution or climate change, and inform conservation efforts.
4. Supply Chain Management: In logistics and supply chain management, 3-axis graphs can help visualize the flow of goods, inventory levels, and transportation costs. By plotting these variables across different dimensions, supply chain managers can optimize operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency throughout the supply chain.
5. Market Research: Market researchers can use 3-axis graphs to analyze consumer behavior, market trends, and competitive landscapes. By plotting variables like product sales, customer demographics, and market share, researchers can identify emerging market opportunities, assess competitive threats, and develop targeted marketing strategies.

These examples highlight the versatility and applicability of 3-axis graphs in Excel across a wide range of industries and disciplines. By mastering the art of creating and interpreting 3-axis graphs, professionals can unlock valuable insights, drive data-driven decision-making, and achieve their organizational goals.

When should you use 3 Axis Graph?

The 3-Axis Graph Excel is strategically positioned to display insights into key data points, relationships, and trends over time.

For instance, you can use this chart to visualize the relationship between the following metrics: population growth, economic growth, living standards, and government investment in healthcare.

Yes, it’s possible to visualize all the metrics (above) within a single view.

Here’s an interesting fact about 3-Axis Graph Excel. This chart is straightforward to read and interpret. More so, it comes in different variants depending on the number of metrics you intend to visualize.

Below are the best scenarios you can best leverage the chart for reliable insights:

• Use 3 Axis Graph only if you want your target audience (or readers) to see the trend of two or more significant metrics in your data over a specified period.
• This chart works best if the aggregate values are as significant as the parts.
• You can use the 3-Axis Graph Excel to uncover hidden correlations between key data points.

Tips to Create a 3-Axis Graph in Excel That’s Compelling and Easy to Read

To create charts that are easy to read and complement your data stories seamlessly, follow the best practices listed below religiously.

• Use high-contrasting colors to depict metrics in the chart. And this is because it will help guide audiences (and readers).
• Remember, crossing lines (or curves) do not mean anything in the 3-axis graph.
• We recommend you avoid comparing the rate of change (gradient) between the two curves because it lacks a significant value.
• Avoid comparing heights because the axis (x, and two y-axis) could be on different scales.

FAQs:

What is a 3 Axis Graph?

A 3-axis graph uses two or more axis to display the relationships in key metrics and dimensions in your raw data. Essentially, you can use this chart to extract in-depth insights from your data. The key advantage of the chart is it can display tons of insights using limited space.

How do I create a chart with multiple axis?

Freemium data visualization tools, such as Excel, lack 3 Axis Graph. To get around this problem, we recommend downloading and installing the ChartExpo add-in to access advanced charts. Using ChartExpo does not require you to have coding or programming skills. Besides, it comes loaded with over 50 advanced charts.

Wrap Up:

Visualizing data with multiple key variables within a single view is not a walk in the park. You need a specialized data visualization chart if your goal is to extract reliable insights.

This is where the 3-Axis Graph Excel comes in.

Well, the 3-axis chart is the go-to tool for professionals who want to display key data points within a single chart. Excel is not recommended if your goal is to create 3 Axis Charts that are simple to interpret and complement your data stories.

This is because the spreadsheet tool lacks Multi Axis Line Chart templates in its library.

We recommend you install third-party apps, such as ChartExpo, into your Excel to access advanced charts, such as Multi Axis Line Chart.

This easy-to-use data visualization tool comes as an add-on you can easily download and install in your Excel app.

ChartExpo is loaded with insightful and easy-to-interpret 3 Axis charts, plus over 50 more advanced charts. Besides, you don’t need programming or coding skills to visualize your data using this tool.

How to make a 3-axis graph in Excel should be a problem of the past now that we’ve introduced you to ChartExpo.

Sign up for a 7-day free trial today to access easy-to-interpret and visually appealing Multi Axis Line Charts.