Answer

Merging two graphs in Excel is the process of placing two different data visualizations into one combined chart. A merged chart displays multiple data sets together to support comparisons, trend analysis, or multi-series evaluation. A merged chart uses one shared plot area and has combined axes or secondary axes when required. To merge two graphs in Excel, combine the underlying data series into a single chart. Excel does not merge two finished charts; Excel merges the data sets that produce the charts.

Windows and Mac steps

Both platforms follow the same charting workflow. The chart design ribbon layout uses identical labels for the commands.

Steps

1. Select the first data set that needs to appear in the merged graph.

2. Press Insert on the ribbon and click Insert Line Chart, Insert Column Chart, or any chart type relevant to the visualization.

3. Click the chart to activate the Chart Design tab.

4. Press Select Data to open the data source window.

5. Click Add under Legend Entries (Series).

6. Select the second data set’s name and values.

7. Press OK to return to the chart.

8. Click the new series if it needs a secondary axis.

9. Press Format Selection and choose Secondary Axis.

10. Format each series using Chart Design → Change Chart Type.

11. Select the recommended combination under Combo Chart to create a merged visualization with multiple chart types.

When should a merged chart be used?

A merged chart is used when multiple data series must be compared visually within the same axes. A merged chart improves clarity when two sets share categories or time periods. A merged chart supports dual-axis layouts when scales differ significantly between data sets. A merged chart supports trend and relationship analysis for dashboards.

What chart types support merged graphs?

Line, column, bar, area, scatter, and combination charts support merged graphs. Scatter and line combinations support correlation review. Column and line combinations support performance-to-target reviews.

Key attributes for a strong merged chart

1. A merged chart formats each series with different line weights or shapes for recognition.

2. A merged chart uses a secondary axis only when a scale difference exceeds 200%.

3. A merged chart includes clear axis titles to maintain comprehension.

4. A merged chart uses consistent intervals to avoid misleading slopes.

5. A merged chart maintains a minimum 1:1 category alignment ratio to avoid misplacement of markers.

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