{"id":45234,"date":"2024-12-24T22:47:44","date_gmt":"2024-12-24T17:47:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/?p=45234"},"modified":"2026-05-06T22:24:33","modified_gmt":"2026-05-06T17:24:33","slug":"moving-average-in-excel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/moving-average-in-excel","title":{"rendered":"Moving Average in Excel Simple Steps for Clear Visuals"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>What is a moving average in Excel?<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s a powerful tool for analyzing data trends. Businesses and analysts use it to smooth fluctuations and understand patterns over time. Tracking sales, stock prices, or website traffic provides valuable insights.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" style=\"max-width: 100%;\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Moving Average in Excel\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZyt4bCtjZXhwbytDRTcwOSs=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-microsoft-excel.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZytncytjZXhwbytDRTcwOSs=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-google-sheets.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZytwYitjZXhwbytQQklNQUM3MDkrTXVsdGlBeGlzTGluZUNoYXJ0Kw==\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-power-bi.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<p>Excel makes calculating moving averages simple. The built-in tools and formulas allow you to analyze data efficiently. Moving averages help identify long-term trends by eliminating short-term noise, making them essential for decision-making.<\/p>\n<p>Businesses rely on moving averages to predict future sales. Financial analysts use them to monitor stock market performance, while marketers analyze website traffic trends to optimize campaigns. The versatility of moving averages in Excel makes them widely applicable.<\/p>\n<p>Understanding moving averages also helps improve forecasts. Focusing on averages gives a clearer view of consistent patterns, reducing errors caused by random fluctuations in data.<\/p>\n<p>Excel has a wide range of users worldwide. Many use moving averages for data analysis. Mastering this function is valuable whether you&#8217;re a beginner or a seasoned analyst.<\/p>\n<p>In this blog, we\u2019ll explain moving averages in Excel, their uses, and how to calculate them step-by-step.<\/p>\n<h3>Table of Contents:<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"#what-is-a-moving-average-in-excel\">What is a Moving Average in Excel?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#reasons-to-calculate-a-moving-average-in-excel\">Reasons to Calculate a Moving Average in Excel<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#how-many-types-of-moving-averages-in-excel\">How Many Types of Moving Averages in Excel?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#how-to-calculate-moving-average-in-excel\">How to Calculate Moving Average in Excel?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#how-to-visualize-moving-averages-in-excel\">How to Visualize Moving Averages in Excel?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#wrap-up\">Wrap Up<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>First&#8230;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"what-is-a-moving-average-in-excel\">What is a Moving Average in Excel?<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Definition: <\/strong>A moving average in Excel is a tool for analyzing data trends over time. It smooths out fluctuations by calculating the average of a specific range, helping identify patterns and long-term changes. Commonly used in sales, finance, and marketing, moving averages simplify forecasting and decision-making.<\/p>\n<p>Excel\u2019s built-in functions and tools make creating moving averages straightforward. <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/tools\/excel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Excel charts<\/a> are essential for anyone looking to analyze data effectively and understand underlying trends in dynamic datasets.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"reasons-to-calculate-a-moving-average-in-excel\">Reasons to Calculate a Moving Average in Excel<\/h2>\n<p>Tracking trends in data can feel overwhelming without the right tools. That\u2019s where a moving average in Excel becomes invaluable. It\u2019s a straightforward and effective method for <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/trend-analysis-in-excel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">trend analysis in Excel<\/a>, helping you make sense of ever-changing numbers with ease.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s why you should calculate it:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>To constantly update average prices<\/strong>: Markets change daily, and moving averages help monitor price shifts. They provide a clearer picture of long-term value by updating as new data becomes available.<\/li>\n<li><strong>To mitigate data errors associated with short-term fluctuations<\/strong>: Short-term changes can distort insights. Moving averages smooth out these fluctuations, making patterns easier to spot.<\/li>\n<li><strong>To detect changes in momentum for security: <\/strong>A moving average reveals when trends in security prices might be shifting, aiding <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/data-driven-decision-making\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">data-driven decisions<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"how-many-types-of-moving-averages-in-excel\">How Many Types of Moving Averages in Excel?<\/h2>\n<p>There are three main types of moving averages in Excel, each serving different analytical needs:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Simple Moving Average (SMA):<\/strong> This averages a set number of data points over a specified range. It gives equal weight to all values, making it useful for smoothing short-term fluctuations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Weighted Moving Average (WMA): <\/strong>WMA assigns greater importance to recent data points, making it ideal for analyzing changing trends in spreadsheets. When performing calculations such as a <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/weighted-average-on-excel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Weighted average in Excel<\/a>, this method helps emphasize recent performance, which is especially valuable in dynamic datasets.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Exponential Moving Average (EMA): <\/strong>EMA further prioritizes recent data while gradually reducing the impact of older points. It reacts faster to data changes, making it ideal for real-time analysis.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-calculate-moving-average-in-excel\">How to Calculate Moving Average in Excel?<\/h2>\n<p>A moving average in Excel simplifies trend analysis. It smooths fluctuations and highlights patterns. Let&#8217;s walk through the steps to calculate it effectively.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Create a time series in Excel: <\/strong>Organize your data in a time-based format. This serves as the foundation for your analysis.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/organize-data-in-time-based-format-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/organize-data-in-time-based-format-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Organize Data in Time Based Format for Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ol start=\"2\">\n<li><strong>Select &#8220;Data Analysis&#8221;<\/strong>: Enable the Data <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/analysis-toolpak-in-excel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Analysis ToolPak from Excel\u2019s<\/a> settings. It provides a dedicated option for moving averages.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/enable-data-analysis-toolpak-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/enable-data-analysis-toolpak-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Enable Data Analysis ToolPak for Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ol start=\"3\">\n<li><strong>Choose &#8220;Moving Average&#8221;<\/strong>: Click on the Data Analysis tab and select &#8220;Moving Average&#8221;. This will open a setup window for your calculation.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/select-moving-average-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/select-moving-average-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Select Moving Average for Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"634\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ol start=\"4\">\n<li><strong>Set interval, input, and output ranges<\/strong>: Input your data range and specify the interval. For example, set it to 3 months for quarterly analysis. Then, select an output range to display results.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/select-output-range-to-display-results-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/select-output-range-to-display-results-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Select Output Range to Display Results for Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"470\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ol start=\"5\">\n<li><strong>Create a graph using the values<\/strong>: Use Excel\u2019s charting tools to visualize your moving average. A \u201cMulti-Axis Line Chart\u201d is a great choice for clear <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/data-presentation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">data presentation<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/use-exce-charting-tools-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/use-exce-charting-tools-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Use Exce; Charting Tools for Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"474\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ol start=\"6\">\n<li><strong>Adjust for a different interval<\/strong>: Repeat the process, but set the interval to 2 months or another desired period.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/repeat-the-process-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/repeat-the-process-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Repeat the Process for Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"422\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ol start=\"7\">\n<li><strong>Create a graph using the new values<\/strong>: Generate a separate chart to compare trends across intervals.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/generate-a-seprate-chart-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/generate-a-seprate-chart-for-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Generate a Seprate Chart for Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-visualize-moving-averages-in-excel\">How to Visualize Moving Averages in Excel?<\/h2>\n<p>Data visualization is the secret weapon of effective <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/data-analysis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">data analysis<\/a>. It turns raw numbers into clear, actionable insights. However, Excel often falls short of advanced visuals. Its built-in tools can feel clunky and limited.<\/p>\n<p data-pm-slice=\"0 0 []\">That\u2019s where ChartExpo comes in. This powerful add-on transforms Excel into a data visualization powerhouse. Want to make moving averages or a <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/charts\/scatter-plot-chart\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Scatter plot<\/a> truly pop? ChartExpo makes it simple, stunning, and efficient. A <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/frequency-chart-in-excel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">frequency chart in Excel<\/a> is another great example of how it helps turn raw data into clear insights. Let\u2019s explore how to bring your data to life in Excel.<\/p>\n<p>Below are the top 5 <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/types-of-charts-and-graphs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">charts and graphs<\/a> created in Excel using ChartExpo:<\/p>\n<h3>Sankey Chart<\/h3>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/sankey-chart-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/sankey-chart-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Sankey Chart After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"613\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<h3>Progress Chart<\/h3>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/progress-chart-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/progress-chart-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Progress Chart After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"641\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<h3>Clustered Stacked Bar Chart<\/h3>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/clustered-stacked-bar-chart-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/clustered-stacked-bar-chart-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Clustered Stacked Bar Chart After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<h3>Likert Scale Chart<\/h3>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/likert-scale-chart-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/likert-scale-chart-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Likert Scale Chart After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<h3>Multi Axis Line Chart<\/h3>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/multi-axis-line-chart-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/multi-axis-line-chart-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Multi Axis Line Chart After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"641\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<p>Let\u2019s learn how to install ChartExpo in Excel.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Open your Excel application.<\/li>\n<li>Open the worksheet and click the \u201c<strong>Insert<\/strong>\u201d menu.<\/li>\n<li>You\u2019ll see the \u201c<strong>My Apps<\/strong>\u201d option.<\/li>\n<li>In the Office Add-ins window, click \u201c<strong>Store<\/strong>\u201d and search for ChartExpo on my Apps Store.<\/li>\n<li>Click the \u201c<strong>Add<\/strong>\u201d button to install ChartExpo in your Excel.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>ChartExpo charts are available both in Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel. Please use the following CTAs to install the tool of your choice and create beautiful visualizations with a few clicks in your favorite tool, including quick insights with a <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/sparkline-in-excel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">sparkline in Excel<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZyt4bCtjZXhwbytDRTcwOSs=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-microsoft-excel.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZytncytjZXhwbytDRTcwOSs=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-google-sheets.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZytwYitjZXhwbytQQklNQUM3MDkrTXVsdGlBeGlzTGluZUNoYXJ0Kw==\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-power-bi.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<h3>Example<\/h3>\n<p>Let\u2019s analyze this sample data in Excel using ChartExpo, a powerful tool for <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/analyzing-and-interpreting-data\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">analyzing and interpreting data<\/a> effectively.<\/p>\n<table class=\"static\" style=\"table-layout: fixed; overflow-x: auto; border: 1px; font-size: 17px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\"><strong>Month<\/strong><\/td>\n<td width=\"110\"><strong>Sales (in millions)<\/strong><\/td>\n<td width=\"199\"><strong>Moving Average for 3 months<\/strong><\/td>\n<td width=\"199\"><strong>Moving Average for 2 months<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">Jan<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">200<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">0<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">0<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">Feb<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">320<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">0<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">260.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">Mar<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">180<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">233.33<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">250.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">Apr<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">450<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">316.67<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">315.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">May<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">360<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">330.00<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">405.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">Jun<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">400<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">403.33<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">380.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">Jul<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">240<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">333.33<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">320.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">Aug<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">280<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">306.67<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">260.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">Sep<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">310<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">276.67<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">295.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">Oct<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">270<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">286.67<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">290.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">Nov<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">330<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">303.33<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">300.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td width=\"77\">Dec<\/td>\n<td width=\"110\">350<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">316.67<\/td>\n<td width=\"199\">340.00<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<ul>\n<li>To get started with ChartExpo, install\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZyt4bCtjZXhwbytDRTcwOSs=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow noreferrer\">ChartExpo in Excel<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Now Click on <strong>My Apps<\/strong> from the <strong>INSERT<\/strong> menu.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/insert-chartexpo-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/insert-chartexpo-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"insert chartexpo in excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Choose <strong>ChartExpo<\/strong> from <strong>My Apps<\/strong>, then click <strong>Insert<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/open-chartexpo-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/open-chartexpo-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"open chartexpo in excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Once it loads, scroll through the charts list to locate and choose the \u201c<strong>Multi Axis Line Chart<\/strong>\u201d.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/search-multi-axis-line-chart-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/search-multi-axis-line-chart-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"search multi axis line chart in excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>You will see a Multi Axis Line Chart on the screen.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/see-multi-axis-line-chart-page-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/see-multi-axis-line-chart-page-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"See Multi Axis Line Chart Page After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Click the \u201c<strong>Create Chart From Selection<\/strong>\u201d button after selecting the data from the sheet, as shown.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/click-create-chart-from-selection-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/click-create-chart-from-selection-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Click Create Chart From Selection After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>ChartExpo will generate the visualization below for you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/initial-visual-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/initial-visual-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Initial Visual After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Click on Settings and change the <strong>\u201cData Representation\u201d<\/strong> as follows.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/change-data-representation-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/change-data-representation-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Change Data Representation After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>If you want to add anything to the chart, click the <strong>Edit Chart <\/strong>button:<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/click-edit-chart-button-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/click-edit-chart-button-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Click Edit Chart Button After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Click the pencil icon next to the<strong> Chart Header<\/strong> to change the title.<\/li>\n<li>It will open the properties dialog. Under the <strong>Text<\/strong> section, you can add a heading in <strong>Line 1<\/strong> and enable <strong>Show<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Give the appropriate title of your chart and click the <strong>Apply<\/strong> button.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/add-chart-header-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/add-chart-header-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Add Chart Header After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>You can add the dollar sign with (Sales) value as follows:<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/add-prefix-with-sales-value-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/add-prefix-with-sales-value-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Add Prefix with Sales Value After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Enable the Legend show button as follows:<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/enable-legend-show-button-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/enable-legend-show-button-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Enable Legend Show Button After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Change the Legend shape of \u201cSales\u201d to Column and click the \u201cApply\u201d button.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/change-legend-shape-of-sales-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/change-legend-shape-of-sales-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Change Legend Shape of Sales After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Change the Legend shape of \u201cMoving Average for 2 and 3 months\u201d into a Line and Circle and click the \u201cApply\u201d button.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/change-legend-shape-of-moving-average-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/change-legend-shape-of-moving-average-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Change Legend Shape of Moving Average After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Click the \u201cSave Changes\u201d button to persist the changes made to the chart.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/click-save-changes-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/click-save-changes-after-doing-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Click Save Changes After Doing Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Your final Multi Axis Line Chart will look like the one below.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/final-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/final-moving-average-in-excel.jpg\" alt=\"Final Moving Average in Excel\" width=\"650\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZyt4bCtjZXhwbytDRTcwOSs=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-microsoft-excel.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZytncytjZXhwbytDRTcwOSs=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-google-sheets.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZytwYitjZXhwbytQQklNQUM3MDkrTXVsdGlBeGlzTGluZUNoYXJ0Kw==\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-power-bi.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<h4>Insights<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Monthly sales data shows fluctuating trends.<\/li>\n<li>The 3-month moving average smooths variations, peaking at 450 million in June.<\/li>\n<li>The 2-month moving average highlights more immediate fluctuations.<\/li>\n<li>Overall, sales show seasonal patterns, ranging between 180 million and 450 million.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Enhance Data Insights by Visualizing Moving Average in Microsoft Excel Through Charts:<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>Open your Excel Application.<\/li>\n<li>Install <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=cWKBUrdIW88\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow noreferrer\">ChartExpo Add-in for Excel<\/a> from Microsoft AppSource to create <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/interactive-storytelling\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">interactive visualizations<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Select the Multi-Axis Line Chart from the list of charts.<\/li>\n<li>Select your data.<\/li>\n<li>Click on the \u201cCreate Chart from Selection\u201d button.<\/li>\n<li>Customize your chart properties to add header, axis, legends, and other required information.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>The following video will help you create a Multi-Axis Line Chart in Microsoft Excel.<\/p>\n<p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/NBylfzh0u9M?si=_Ep2rF8h8kMmW5zf\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZyt4bCtjZXhwbytDRTcwOSs=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-microsoft-excel.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZytncytjZXhwbytDRTcwOSs=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-google-sheets.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/utmAction\/MTYrYmxvZytwYitjZXhwbytQQklNQUM3MDkrTXVsdGlBeGlzTGluZUNoYXJ0Kw==\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-4345\" src=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/CTA-in-power-bi.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"113\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<h2>FAQs<\/h2>\n<h3>How do I add a rolling average to an Excel chart?<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Calculate the rolling average in a separate column.<\/li>\n<li>Use formulas like =AVERAGE(range) for the rolling window.<\/li>\n<li>Add the rolling average column to the chart.<\/li>\n<li>Format as a smooth line for clarity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>How do you make a moving average control chart in Excel?<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Enter data in Excel.<\/li>\n<li>Calculate the moving average in a new column.<\/li>\n<li>Add columns for control limits (e.g., mean \u00b1 3\u03c3).<\/li>\n<li>Insert a line chart with data, moving averages, and limits.<\/li>\n<li>Format appropriately.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>What is a moving average line in Excel?<\/h3>\n<p>A moving average line in Excel shows the average value over a specific period, smoothing fluctuations in data. It highlights trends. You can add it to charts using Excel&#8217;s &#8220;Trendline&#8221; feature, selecting &#8220;Moving Average&#8221; as the type.<\/p>\n<h4 id=\"wrap-up\">Wrap Up<\/h4>\n<p>A moving average in Excel is a powerful tool for analyzing trends. It smooths fluctuations in data, making patterns easier to understand. It helps you focus on long-term changes.<\/p>\n<p>Businesses rely on moving averages to track sales, monitor inventory, and analyze market trends. They\u2019re also popular for financial forecasting and performance evaluation, making them versatile and valuable.<\/p>\n<p>Excel simplifies moving average calculations with built-in functions. You can apply formulas and create graphs quickly. It saves time and improves data interpretation.<\/p>\n<p>There are different types of moving averages. Simple, weighted, and exponential moving averages each serve specific purposes. Choosing the right one depends on your data and goals.<\/p>\n<p>Using moving averages improves forecasting accuracy. By reducing short-term noise, it reveals meaningful insights. It supports better decision-making and strategic planning.<\/p>\n<p>Mastering moving averages in Excel enhances data analysis skills. Whether for business or personal use, this tool helps you uncover trends and make informed decisions confidently.<\/p>\n<p>Start using it today with ChartExpo and revolutionize your data analysis.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><p>Simplify analysis by learning moving averages in Excel. Understand long-term trends, minimize fluctuations, &#038; forecast accurately with step-by-step instructions.<\/p>\n&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/moving-average-in-excel\"><\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":45298,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[746],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v21.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\r\n<title>Moving Average in Excel Simple Steps for Clear Visuals -<\/title>\r\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\r\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/chartexpo.com\/blog\/moving-average-in-excel\" \/>\r\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\r\n<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"Moving Average in Excel Simple Steps for Clear Visuals -\" \/>\r\n<meta name=\"twitter:description\" content=\"Simplify analysis by learning moving averages in Excel. 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