What is a stacked area chart?

Stacked area charts represent the cumulative change of multiple series. In these graphs, the areas corresponding to each category are plotted on the top of each other.

A stacked area chart is ideal for displaying how different data series cumulatively evolve over a category or value x-axis, i.e., for revealing overall trends. Besides, it also helps to visualize how part-to-whole relationships develop, making evident how the series contribute to the cumulative total at different points.

How to make a stacked area chart with Vizzlo?

Create a stacked area chart online to present your data:

• On the tab “DATA” of the sidebar, click on the button “SERIES” to name your categories.
• Click on “EDIT DATA IN SPREADSHEET” to import or copy and paste your data. Make sure to match the number formatting with your source—click on the “wheel” icons to see the setting options.
• Explore the customization options in the tab “APPEARANCE” to choose/customize a theme and set up layout preferences.

Pro tip: If you would like to figure out trends for each series or compare them, choose the line graph. Check the 100% stacked area chart, if observing the composition is your only objective, that is to say, if the cumulative/total values are not relevant to support your arguments. Use the time series graph to visualize your series over time.

Stacked area chart maker: key features

• Multiple series
• Straight line segments, smoothly interpolated curves or steps
• Custom x-axis: values (number) or categories (text)
• Adjustable axes and ranges
• Custom number formats
• Optional labeling of individual values
• Optional labeling of closing/end values
• Adjustable transparency
• Custom colors and fonts
• Custom gridlines

Resources

• Line, area and time-series graphs. Choose the best visualization type for your data

Stacked Area Chart: What's new?