Graphs in Illustrator

When you think about making graphs, Illustrator probably isn't your first choice. Many people don't know that Illustrator has a built-in tool that can create accurate graphs that are both interesting to look at and easy to work with. Illustrator provides a very simple-to-use spreadsheet for data entry.

Illustrator can make all of the basic graph types, including lines, stacked and grouped columns, bars, stacked bars, area graphs, pie charts, scatter graphs, and radar graphs. You can also use Illustrator to make flow charts, diagrams and maps.

To open a graph, you can click the Graph Tool icon from the tool palette. You can click and drag a space for the graph on an open window, or you can simply click on the Artboard without specifying a size for your graph.

Illustrator will open a simple spreadsheet where you can enter or import data in row-and-column format. If you're accustomed to using Excel, you'll quickly find that Illustrator lacks many of the control features you find in Excel or other spreadsheets. You won't be able to insert rows or columns, and Illustrator has no tools for creating formulas. You can create this data in Excel or another program and import it into Illustrator. You'll need to replace the formulas with their values before you import them into Illustrator.

You'll need to enclose any numerical column or row labels in double quotes; otherwise, Illustrator will assume these numbers are part of the data set. Once you've finished entering data, click the Apply button (check mark) in the upper right side of the window. Illustrator will create or update your graph. You can re-open the spreadsheet for a particular graph by double-clicking on the graph. If you add or subtract data, Illustrator will automatically update the graph to reflect the changes.

To customise your graphs, or to make changes to an existing graph display, select the graph and choose Object > Graph > Type. Illustrator will present the Graph Type dialogue box. You can change the graph type, the location of the value axis, the appearance and style of the text, and unique options that vary, depending upon the graph type you select. Graph options control such attributes as the tick values and the location of tick marks along the axes, labels, and the appearance of graph objects.

Apply any changes you've made to the graph and Illustrator will automatically update your document.

Notes for editors: Claire Blinman is the training manager at Computer Training Solutions in Bristol. Computer Training Solutions offer Creative Suite training courses or call 0800 019 6882