5 Ways Excel Double Y Axis

Introduction to Excel Double Y Axis

When dealing with data that has different units or scales, using a double Y axis in Excel can be incredibly helpful. This feature allows you to plot two sets of data with different scales on the same chart, making it easier to compare and analyze the data. In this post, we will explore 5 ways to create a double Y axis in Excel, along with step-by-step instructions and examples.

Method 1: Using the Built-in Double Y Axis Feature

Excel provides a built-in feature to create a double Y axis. To use this feature, follow these steps:

• Select the data range that you want to plot.
• Go to the Insert tab and click on Chart.
• Choose the chart type that you want to use, such as a line chart or column chart.
• Right-click on the chart and select Chart Options.
• In the Chart Options dialog box, click on the Axes tab.
• Check the box next to Secondary Axis and click OK.

This will create a double Y axis with the secondary axis on the right side of the chart.

Method 2: Using a Secondary Axis with a Different Scale

If you want to create a double Y axis with a different scale, you can use a secondary axis. To do this, follow these steps:

• Select the data range that you want to plot.
• Go to the Insert tab and click on Chart.
• Choose the chart type that you want to use, such as a line chart or column chart.
• Right-click on the chart and select Chart Options.
• In the Chart Options dialog box, click on the Axes tab.
• Check the box next to Secondary Axis and select the axis that you want to use as the secondary axis.
• Click on the Scale tab and adjust the scale of the secondary axis as needed.

This will create a double Y axis with a different scale for the secondary axis.

Method 3: Using a Combo Chart

A combo chart is a type of chart that allows you to combine different chart types, such as a line chart and a column chart. To create a double Y axis using a combo chart, follow these steps:

• Select the data range that you want to plot.
• Go to the Insert tab and click on Chart.
• Choose the combo chart type that you want to use.
• Right-click on the chart and select Chart Options.
• In the Chart Options dialog box, click on the Axes tab.
• Check the box next to Secondary Axis and select the axis that you want to use as the secondary axis.

This will create a double Y axis with a combo chart.

Method 4: Using VBA Macro

You can also use VBA macro to create a double Y axis in Excel. To do this, follow these steps:

• Open the Visual Basic Editor by pressing Alt + F11 or by navigating to Developer > Visual Basic.
• In the Visual Basic Editor, click on Insert > Module to insert a new module.
• Paste the following code into the module:

  Sub CreateDoubleYAxis()
      Dim chart As Chart
      Set chart = ActiveChart
      chart.Axes(xlValue).HasTitle = True
      chart.Axes(xlValue).AxisTitle.Text = "Primary Axis"
      chart.Axes(xlValue, xlSecondary).HasTitle = True
      chart.Axes(xlValue, xlSecondary).AxisTitle.Text = "Secondary Axis"
  End Sub
  

• Click on Run > Run Sub/User Form to run the macro.

This will create a double Y axis with a primary axis and a secondary axis.

Method 5: Using Add-ins

There are several add-ins available that can help you create a double Y axis in Excel. Some popular add-ins include:

• Excel Chart Add-in: This add-in provides a range of charting tools, including the ability to create double Y axes.
• Chart Tools: This add-in provides a range of charting tools, including the ability to create double Y axes.

To use an add-in, follow these steps:

• Download and install the add-in.
• Open Excel and go to the Add-ins tab.
• Click on the add-in that you want to use.
• Follow the instructions provided by the add-in to create a double Y axis.

📝 Note: When creating a double Y axis, make sure to adjust the scales and titles of the axes as needed to ensure that the chart is clear and easy to read.

In conclusion, creating a double Y axis in Excel can be a powerful way to visualize and analyze data. By using one of the methods outlined above, you can create a double Y axis that meets your needs and helps you to better understand your data.