Answer

Yes. A chart fails to show data when specific chart, worksheet, or reference conditions prevent Excel from reading the source range. A chart is a visual object that uses linked references, formatting rules, and visibility settings to display values.

Common Causes and How to Fix Them

1. Hidden Rows or Columns

A chart does not display values from hidden rows or columns when Excel is set to ignore hidden content.

How to fix it

1. Select the chart.

2. Select Chart Design.

3. Select Select Data.

4. Select Hidden and Empty Cells.

5. Select Show data in hidden rows and columns.

6. Select OK.

Windows and Mac use the same menu names for this action.

2. Incorrect Data Range

A chart fails to display values when the selected range does not include the intended cells.

How to fix it

1. Select the chart.

2. Select Chart Design.

3. Select Select Data.

4. Confirm that the range in Chart Data Range covers all required cells.

5. Expand the range if values fall outside the selection.

3. Data Contains Text Instead of Numbers

A chart does not plot text entries when the chart expects numerical values.

How to fix it

1. Highlight the data range.

2. Inspect cells with values that appear left-aligned or show green error markers.

3. Convert text to numbers:

   • Windows: Select the cells → Select the warning icon → Select Convert to Number.

   • Mac: Use Data → Text to Columns → Finish (forces Excel to re-evaluate formats).

4. Empty or Blank Cells in the Data Range

A chart skips blank cells when the plotting rule is set to “gaps.”

How to fix it

1. Select the chart.

2. Select Chart Design.

3. Select Select Data.

4. Select Hidden and Empty Cells.

5. Choose one of the handling rules:

   • Gaps

   • Zero

   • Connect data points with line

5. Filters Excluding Values

A chart does not show values that have been filtered out of the table.

How to fix it

1. Open the filter dropdown on the table header.

2. Restore all filtered categories by selecting Clear Filter.

3. Confirm that the chart updates automatically.

6. Incorrect Chart Type for the Data

A chart fails to show information when the data structure conflicts with the selected chart type. Column and line charts need a numerical series. Pie charts need one series.

How to fix it

1. Select the chart.

2. Select Chart Design.

3. Select Change Chart Type.

4. Choose a type that supports your structure:

   • Line, column, bar charts for multiple series.

   • Pie charts for single-series proportions.

7. Data Stored in a Table With New Rows Outside the Chart Range

A chart ignores new values when the source range does not auto-expand.

How to fix it

1. Convert the data to an official Excel Table:

   • Windows: Press Ctrl + T.

   • Mac: Press Command + T.

2. Confirm my table has headers.

3. Excel expands chart ranges automatically when new rows appear.

8. Hidden Worksheet or Protected Sheet

A chart fails to update when the worksheet holding the source data is hidden or protected with restricted editing privileges.

How to fix it

1. Unhide the worksheet:

   • Select any sheet tab → Unhide → Choose the sheet.

2. Remove protection:

   • Select Review → Unprotect Sheet.

9. Error Values in the Data

A chart does not display any data series that contain errors.

How to fix it

1. Search for #DIV/0!, #VALUE!, or #N/A in the data.

2. Replace or repair the formulas.

3. Use IFERROR() in formulas when needed.

10. Chart Based on Non-Contiguous Ranges

A chart misreads separate ranges when those ranges exceed Excel’s internal structure limits.

How to fix it

1. Store all data in a structured table.

2. Use one continuous range for each series.

3. Rebuild the chart after reorganizing the data.

Windows vs. Mac Differences

• Both operating systems use the same chart tools and menu names.

• Mac places Chart Design and Format under the Chart toolbar that appears at the top of the window.

• Windows places these tabs directly on the Ribbon when the chart is selected.

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