Ampler Charts adds a legend to a chart, identifying the series — either the whole legend at once, or selected series names.
Quick answer: Right-click the chart and select Add legend; or Shift-select the series names, right-click, and choose Add to legend.
How to use it
Right-click the chart to add a legend.
- Right-click on the chart and select Add legend.
- Alternatively, Shift-select the series names, right-click, and select Add to legend.
The legend identifies the series by name, so the reader knows which is which.
When to use it
Use a legend when several series need identifying and there isn’t room to label them directly. For a few series, direct series labels on the chart are often clearer than a legend the eye has to cross-reference.
How consultants use it
How series are identified affects how quickly a chart is read. Three habits apply:
- Identify the series: a legend names each series so the chart is legible
- Legend vs direct labels: a legend suits many series; direct labels suit a few
- Placed out of the way: the legend sits clear of the data
A legend identifies the series when direct labelling isn’t practical.
Tips & best practices
- Prefer direct series labels when there are only a few series.
- Keep the legend clear of the plotted data.
- Order the legend to match the order of the series on the chart.
Availability
Part of Ampler Charts, included in Ampler for PowerPoint and the Ampler Suite, on Windows desktop PowerPoint.
Frequently asked questions
How do you add a legend to a chart in PowerPoint?
Right-click the chart in Ampler Charts and select Add legend, or Shift-select the series names and choose Add to legend.
Should you use a legend or label series directly?
Use a legend for several series; for a few, direct series labels on the chart are usually clearer because the reader doesn’t have to cross-reference.
How do you add only some series to the legend?
Shift-select those series names, right-click, and choose Add to legend.
How do you move or resize the legend?
See Move and resize the legend — drag it to reposition and use the handles to resize.