When should I use a SmartArt graphic and when should I use a chart? (2024)

Note:This article has done its job, and will be retiring soon. To prevent "Page not found" woes, we're removing links we know about. If you've created links to this page, please remove them, and together we'll keep the web connected.

A SmartArt graphic is a visual representation of information and ideas, and a chart is a visual illustration of numeric values or data. Basically, SmartArt graphics are designed for text and charts are designed for numbers.

Use the information below to decide when to use a SmartArt graphic and when to use a chart.

Use a SmartArt graphic if you want to do any of the following:

To create a SmartArt graphic, see Create a SmartArt graphic. For help with deciding which SmartArt graphic layout to use, see Choose a SmartArt graphic.

Use a chart if you want to do any of the following:

  • Create a bar chart or column chart.

  • Create a line or XY scatter (data point) chart.

  • Create a stock chart, used to graph various stock prices.

  • Create a surface, donut, bubble, or radar chart.

  • Create a combination chart, such as a bar and line chart

  • Link to live data in an Excel workbook.

  • Update your chart automatically when numbers in an Excel workbook are updated.

  • Use "what-if" calculations, and you want to be able to change numbers and see the changes automatically and immediately reflected in the chart.

  • Automatically add legends or gridlines that are based on your data.

  • Use chart-specific functionality, such as error bars or data labels.

To create a chart, see Create a chart. For help with deciding which type of chart to use, see Available chart types.

When should I use a SmartArt graphic and when should I use a chart? (2024)

FAQs

When should I use a SmartArt graphic and when should I use a chart? ›

A SmartArt graphic is a visual representation of information and ideas, and a chart is a visual illustration of numeric values or data. Basically, SmartArt graphics are designed for text and charts are designed for numbers.

What are SmartArt graphics used for? ›

SmartArt allows you to visually communicate your important ideas and information. For example, you can use SmartArt graphics to depict processes, hierarchies, relationships and so on. By using SmartArt to communicate information, you can create visually-appealing diagrams that can say so much more than words alone.

What is the benefit of using Smart Art chart in Excel? ›

SmartArt graphics in Excel are pre-designed diagrams and charts that are customizable to fit your specific needs. By using Smart Art, you can create visually appealing and engaging presentations that can help you convey complex information in a clear and easy-to-understand way.

When choosing a SmartArt graphic What is the main consideration? ›

Before you choose a layout for your SmartArt graphic, ask yourself what you want to convey and whether you want your information to appear a certain way. Since you can quickly and easily switch layouts, try different layouts (across types) until you find the one that best illustrates your message.

What is SmartArt used for Quizlet? ›

List SmartArt is used to illustrate non-sequential or grouped information. Cycle SmartArt is used to illustrate non-sequential or grouped information. Numbers should usually be right aligned so your audience can easily interpret values.

What is the difference between a chart and a SmartArt? ›

A SmartArt graphic is a visual representation of information and ideas, and a chart is a visual illustration of numeric values or data. Basically, SmartArt graphics are designed for text and charts are designed for numbers. Use the information below to decide when to use a SmartArt graphic and when to use a chart.

What are the benefits of SmartArt? ›

It allows you to present complex information in a simplified and visually appealing way, making it easier for your audience to understand. With SmartArt, you can quickly create professional-looking graphics without the need for advanced design skills.

What can you create using SmartArt? ›

Create a SmartArt graphic to quickly and easily make a visual representation of your information. You can choose from among many different layouts, to effectively communicate your message or ideas. SmartArt graphics can be created in Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word, and they can be used throughout Office.

What can you do with SmartArt? ›

SmartArt can be used to create diagrams such as flow charts, organization charts, and hierarchy diagrams. It can be useful to show the relationship of different ideas, and concepts or to show a process flow and the different stages in it.

Which SmartArt category can you use to? ›

Answer: SmartArt graphics can be used to create informational graphics out of bullet points.

What is the feature of smart art? ›

SmartArt is a powerful feature in Microsoft Office that allows you to create visually appealing diagrams, charts, and graphics.

Why would like to use SmartArt in a PowerPoint presentation? ›

SmartArt is a tool in PowerPoint that allows you to create complicated charts and diagrams with a minimum amount of effort. SmartArt is “smart” in that is automatically adjusts for size as you work on the layout.

Which of the following SmartArt layout can be used to create an organization chart? ›

On the Insert tab, in the Illustrations group, click SmartArt. In the Choose a SmartArt Graphic gallery, click Hierarchy, click an organization chart layout (such as Organization Chart), and then click OK. To enter your text, do one of the following: Click in a box in the SmartArt graphic, and then type your text.

What is the objective of smart art? ›

Learning Objectives

SmartArt can be used to group lists of information together, through bullet lists for example, or to show a process, through cycles. Fortunately, you do not need to be a graphic designer to create and insert simple and effective SmartArt into a PowerPoint presentation.

What is SmartArt a tool for creating? ›

SmartArt is a tool in PowerPoint that allows you to create complicated charts and diagrams with a minimum amount of effort. SmartArt is “smart” in that is automatically adjusts for size as you work on the layout.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Duncan Muller

Last Updated:

Views: 6131

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (59 voted)

Reviews: 90% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Duncan Muller

Birthday: 1997-01-13

Address: Apt. 505 914 Phillip Crossroad, O'Konborough, NV 62411

Phone: +8555305800947

Job: Construction Agent

Hobby: Shopping, Table tennis, Snowboarding, Rafting, Motor sports, Homebrewing, Taxidermy

Introduction: My name is Duncan Muller, I am a enchanting, good, gentle, modern, tasty, nice, elegant person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.