Although stacked column charts can show the change over time of a part-to-whole relationship, it’s generally difficult to compare the relative size of the components that make up each column. 

Pros

Multiple categories and data series in compact space Can show part-to-whole changes over time

Cons

Difficult to compare all but first series Become visually complex as categories or series are added

Tips

Limit data series and categories Avoid all 3d variants

Author

Dave Bruns

Hi - I’m Dave Bruns, and I run Exceljet with my wife, Lisa. Our goal is to help you work faster in Excel. We create short videos, and clear examples of formulas, functions, pivot tables, conditional formatting, and charts.   

100  Stacked Column Chart - 92100  Stacked Column Chart - 69100  Stacked Column Chart - 16100  Stacked Column Chart - 9100  Stacked Column Chart - 27100  Stacked Column Chart - 6100  Stacked Column Chart - 42100  Stacked Column Chart - 27100  Stacked Column Chart - 63