PowerPoint Data Viz – Business Charting Techniques

Packt via Coursera

Go to class Write review

Details

Go to class

Provider

Coursera
Pricing

Paid Course
Languages

English
Certificate

Paid Certificate Available
Duration & workload

7 hours 12 minutes
Sessions

On-Demand
Subtitles

English

Found in

Overview

Coursera Flash Sale

40% Off Coursera Plus for 3 Months!

Grab it

This course features Coursera Coach! A smarter way to learn with interactive, real-time conversations that help you test your knowledge, challenge assumptions, and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. Mastering PowerPoint charting techniques can significantly elevate your ability to communicate data insights effectively. This course empowers you with a comprehensive understanding of the most powerful charts in PowerPoint, from line and column charts to complex visualizations like waterfall and pictographs. By learning these techniques, you'll be equipped to design presentations that captivate your audience and convey data in a meaningful way. The course starts by introducing you to the basics of PowerPoint charts, including essential elements like color schemes, design principles, and chart customization. As you progress, you’ll dive deeper into data visualization types, learning the best practices for applying them to different business contexts. Key topics include line charts, column/bar charts, pie charts, and more, along with tips on animation and creating dynamic presentations. This course is perfect for business professionals, marketers, and anyone looking to improve their data visualization skills. While no prior experience with PowerPoint is required, a basic understanding of business data and charts will be helpful. This course is suited for those with an intermediate skill level in PowerPoint. By the end of the course, you will be able to design clear, compelling charts in PowerPoint, apply advanced customization techniques, and animate data visualizations for impactful presentations.

Syllabus

Introduction

In this module, we will introduce you to the core concepts of data visualization and how it enhances business communication. You’ll also review the course structure, learning objectives, and discover the essential resources that will help you succeed. This section sets the foundation for mastering PowerPoint charting techniques throughout the course.

PowerPoint Charts - Understanding the Tool

In this module, we will dive deep into the various chart types PowerPoint offers and their role in conveying data-driven stories. You’ll gain hands-on knowledge of creating and customizing basic charts, explore advanced features to refine your charts, and understand the importance of design and color schemes. This section is designed to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of PowerPoint charts, empowering you to make your presentations more dynamic and impactful.

Data Visualization - Line Charts

In this module, we will explore the power of line charts as a tool for illustrating trends and patterns in your data. You'll learn how to create clear and meaningful charts with well-crafted titles, proper formatting, and effective labeling. We’ll also focus on decluttering techniques to keep your visuals clean and actionable, and discover how to highlight key trends and values for maximum impact. This section will help you master line charts for compelling and effective data visualization.

Data Visualization - Column/Bar Charts

In this module, we will dive into column and bar charts, exploring their unique characteristics and use cases. You’ll learn how to design clear column charts and format horizontal bar charts to present data effectively. We’ll also cover stacked column and bar charts to help you represent and compare multiple data sets in a single visual. This section will enhance your ability to convey complex data with clarity and impact using column and bar charts.

Data Visualization - Pie Charts

In this module, we will explore how to effectively use pie charts to communicate proportional data. You’ll learn formatting techniques to create visually compelling pie charts, as well as how rotating the chart can enhance clarity and presentation. Additionally, we will introduce doughnut charts as a modern alternative to traditional pie charts, providing a new perspective for data visualization.

Data Visualization - Area Charts

In this module, we will explore area charts as a powerful tool for visualizing cumulative data. You’ll learn how to reorganize data series for better clarity, apply advanced grouping techniques, and utilize projective visualization strategies. Additionally, we’ll cover how to create stacked area charts to highlight data trends over time, including specific tips for PowerPoint on Mac.

Data Visualization - Waterfall Charts

In this module, we will introduce you to waterfall charts and their ability to visualize incremental changes in data. You’ll learn how to create waterfall charts that display both beginning and ending totals, as well as charts focused on a single total to provide cumulative insights. This section will help you master the art of using waterfall charts to clarify data trends and shifts.

Data Visualization - Pictographs

In this module, we will explore the power of pictographs in presenting data through visually engaging icons. You’ll learn how to convert data into meaningful icon-based visuals and how to design impactful infographics using PowerPoint. This section will help you leverage pictographs to create eye-catching and memorable presentations.

Data Visualization - Maps

In this module, we will focus on how to effectively visualize data using maps. You’ll learn how to create maps for global or country-level data, use PowerPoint’s built-in tools to craft sleek map visuals, and enhance your presentations with pre-designed map templates. This section will give you the skills to incorporate dynamic and informative maps into your PowerPoint presentations.

Data Visualization - Combo Chart

In this module, we will explore how to effectively combine line and column charts in PowerPoint to represent multifaceted data. You’ll learn how to design and customize combo charts that improve your data visualization skills. By the end of the module, you’ll be able to present complex information in a clear and compelling way.

Animating Charts and Data

In this module, we will dive into the world of animating charts in PowerPoint to bring your data presentations to life. You’ll learn various animation techniques, from basic chart animations to advanced strategies like separating data series and using PowerPoint Morph for seamless transitions. By the end of the module, you’ll be equipped with the skills to make your data more engaging and visually compelling through animation.

Good Practices and Useful PowerPoint Knowledge

In this module, we will cover essential best practices and tips for making your PowerPoint presentations both polished and professional. You’ll explore how to use color, gradient bars, and custom markers to enhance your charts. Additionally, we’ll teach you how to work with trendlines, create chart templates, and set default formats, ensuring consistency across both Windows and Mac versions of PowerPoint. By the end of this module, you’ll have the knowledge to create visually compelling and consistent presentations effortlessly.

Conclusion

In this module, we will wrap up the course by reviewing the key takeaways and offering final thoughts. You’ll be encouraged to apply the charting skills you’ve developed throughout the course in business contexts, enhancing your presentations and decision-making. By the end of this module, you’ll be ready to take your newly acquired skills and confidently apply them in your professional presentations.