Graphs and charts are used to present information in a visual form. When looking at data in a table,  it is difficult to find patters and meaning to data in a table. Graphs make data understandable and help the presenter express their message using fewer words. Humans are great at finding and observing patterns. We can use this fact to our advantage by replacing complicated looking tables with visual stimuli. Here, we will be talking about how to use a waterfall chart in a PowerPoint presentation.

What is a WaterFall Chart?

A waterfall chart is used for sequential data that might contain positive and negative values. This graph shows the relation between a few such data sets. This graph looks like floating columns, which is the reason why it is also called a flying bricks or Mario chart as well.

Waterfall Chart - Cover - FreePowerPointTemplates

When Should I Use a WaterFall Chart?

A waterfall graph is used whenever you want to show how something changed a value from positive to negative. It is usually applied to show how a cash reserve changes from a certain process after a year has passed. It is also used when comparing projected and approved amounts.

How To Make a WaterFall Chart in PowerPoint

Many people find it difficult to make a waterfall graph in PowerPoint. This is because the option to create a waterfall graph is not available in PowerPoint. However, you can make a waterfall chart using a modified stacked column chart. This is accomplished by making three different data points in a stacked column chart. This is easy to do once you understand how it is done. Click here to see a video on how to make a WaterFall chart for your PowerPoint presentation.

Image Courtesy:

English: Example of waterfall chart by FusionCharts Blog [CC BY 4.0] via Wikimedia Commons