Create a pie chart in PowerPoint to visually demonstrate proportions of a whole. After you’ve created the basic chart, adjust the chart’s data, alter its style, and update it on the fly.

Create a Pie Chart in PowerPoint

Begin by adding a new slide using the Title and Content slide layout. Then, select the Insert Chart icon (it’s the middle icon on the top row of the group of six icons shown in the body of the slide layout).

Information in this article applies to PowerPoint 2019, 2016, and 2013; PowerPoint for Microsoft 365; and PowerPoint for Mac.

Choose a Pie Chart Style

In the Insert Chart dialog box, select Pie and choose a pie chart style. There are several style of pie charts. Options include flat pie shapes, 3D pie shapes, and pie charts with exploded pieces. Select OK after you have made your selection.

Another way to add a pie chart is to choose a blank slide in your presentation and select Insert > Chart.

The Generic Pie Chart and Data

When you create a pie chart on a PowerPoint slide, the basic chart appears on the slide and the chart data appears in a worksheet window.

The pie chart styles and colors can be changed after the chart is created.

You’ll use the worksheet window to enter data for the pie chart by replacing the default data.

If you don’t see the worksheet window, select the chart and select Chart Tools Design > Edit Data.

Edit the Pie Chart Data

Pie charts display comparative types of data, such as percentage figures for how much each of your monthly household expenses takes from your income. However, pie charts display one type of data, unlike column charts or line charts.

To edit the data in the worksheet window:

  • Select the worksheet window to make it the active window.
  • Edit the heading of the column in the generic data to reflect your own information.
  • Edit the row headings in the generic data to reflect your own information. The chart updates to reflect your changes.

Updated Pie Chart Reflects New Data

After you change the generic data to your own specific data, the information is immediately reflected in the pie chart. Add a title for your slide into the text placeholder at the top of the slide.

Select the worksheet window to make it the active window.

Edit the heading of the column in the generic data to reflect your own information.

Edit the row headings in the generic data to reflect your own information. The chart updates to reflect your changes.

To add new data rows, drag a corner handle of the highlighted data set.

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