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How to add data bars with conditional formatting in Excel and Google Sheets
Excel & Google Sheets
=A2✓
Verified example
Computed by a real spreadsheet engine on the sample data below.
| Sales | Revenue |
| 200 | 1500 |
| 400 | 3000 |
| 300 | 2500 |
| 500 | 4000 |
=A2→200
Try it with your data
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Sample data — click any cell to edit
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Step by step
- 1Select the range of cells you want to format with data bars.
- 2Go to the Home tab and click on Conditional Formatting.
- 3Choose Data Bars from the dropdown menu.
- 4Select a style for the data bars or customize the settings as needed.
- 5Click OK to apply the data bars.
Tips
- Ensure your data range does not include headers unless you want them formatted as well.
- Customize the color and direction of the data bars to better fit your presentation needs.
- Data bars can be removed by selecting the formatted cells, going to Conditional Formatting, and choosing Clear Rules.
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Frequently asked
Can I change the color of the data bars?
Yes, you can customize the color of data bars by selecting the format rule and adjusting the color settings.
Do data bars work with negative numbers?
Yes, data bars can handle negative numbers, but you may need to adjust the minimum and maximum values in the settings for accurate representation.
How do I remove data bars once they are applied?
To remove data bars, select the formatted cells, go to Conditional Formatting, and choose Clear Rules.