Ampler Charts adds total-difference and level-difference callouts to a chart — showing the change between two totals, or the gap between two segments.
Quick answer: Right-click the chart and select Add total difference; for a level difference, select two segments, right-click, and choose Add level difference; drag it along the line to reposition.
How to use it
Add a total or level difference to call out a change.
- Right-click on the chart and select Add total difference.
- For a level difference, select two segments, right-click, and select Add level difference.
- Move the level difference to a different position by dragging on the line.
A total difference shows the change between two column totals; a level difference shows the gap between two specific segments.
When to use it
Add a total difference to show the change between two totals, or a level difference to call out the gap between two segments — use them where the delta itself is the insight, not as decoration.
How consultants use it
Difference callouts state the variance a chart exists to show — the bridge from one figure to another. Three habits apply:
- Call out the delta: the change between two totals or segments is stated on the chart
- Total vs level: a total difference spans column totals; a level difference isolates two segments
- Only where it matters: differences are added to the comparisons that carry the message
Difference callouts put the variance a chart is meant to show right on it.
Tips & best practices
- Use a total difference for the headline change, a level difference for a specific gap.
- Don’t crowd a chart with differences — call out only the deltas that matter.
- Format the difference labels consistently across charts.
Availability
Part of Ampler Charts, included in Ampler for PowerPoint and the Ampler Suite, on Windows desktop PowerPoint.
Frequently asked questions
How do you show the difference between two columns in a chart?
Right-click the chart in Ampler Charts and select Add total difference to show the change between two column totals.
What is a level difference on a chart?
A callout showing the gap between two specific segments — select the two segments, right-click, and choose Add level difference.
What is the difference between a total and a level difference?
A total difference compares two whole-column totals; a level difference compares two individual segments within or across columns.
How do you move a difference callout?
Drag it along its line to reposition it.