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How to apply a color scale by value in Excel and Google Sheets
Excel & Google Sheets
=AVERAGE(B2:B7)✓
Verified example
Computed by a real spreadsheet engine on the sample data below.
| Product | Sales |
| Widget A | 150 |
| Widget B | 200 |
| Widget C | 175 |
| Widget D | 300 |
| Widget E | 250 |
=AVERAGE(B2:B7)→215
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Step by step
- 1Select the range of cells you want to format with a color scale.
- 2In Excel, go to the Home tab > Styles group > Conditional Formatting > Color Scales. In Google Sheets, click Format > Conditional formatting.
- 3Choose a color scale from the options provided.
- 4Adjust the settings if necessary, such as setting specific thresholds for colors.
- 5Click OK to apply the color scale.
Tips
- Ensure your data range does not include headers unless you intend to format them.
- Different versions of Excel and Google Sheets might have slight variations in the interface, but the core functionality remains the same.
- Consider using three-color scales for more nuanced data representation.
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Frequently asked
Can I use custom colors for my color scale?
Yes, in both Excel and Google Sheets, you can customize the colors used in a color scale.
What happens if I change the data after applying a color scale?
The color scale will automatically adjust to reflect the new data values.
Is it possible to remove a color scale once applied?
Yes, you can remove a color scale by selecting the formatted cells, going to Conditional Formatting in the menu, and choosing 'Clear Rules'. In Google Sheets, click Format > Conditional formatting > Manage rules > Delete.