What it shows
Compares two measures left and right from a shared center, showing both sides in balance.
When to use it
It is most useful when comparing male and female counts, or imports and exports, from a shared axis. It is aimed mainly at analysts, managers, report authors.
Example scenarios
- Comparing male and female counts, or imports and exports, from a shared axis.
- Analysts: compares two measures left and right from a shared center, showing both sides in balance.
What it needs
Columns for the category labels, the left-side values and the right-side values.
How to use it
- Pick chart type
- Bind data
- Adjust settings and design
- Insert
What it produces
A live SVG chart shape (auto-refresh and edit).
Effect on your data and undo
Bi-Directional Bar does not change your source data; the result is added as a separate item. It refreshes automatically when the linked cells change. You can reverse it at any time with Undo Last.
How it differs from similar tools
Unlike a static picture you paste in by hand, it stays bound to your data and redraws itself whenever the source cells change.
Good to know
Bindings must match the chart's expected shape; auto-refreshes on source change. Honest empty / dash state. Invalid data shows a localized validation message (no wrong chart).
Limitations
Requires the listed data fields.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I undo what it does?
- Yes. Undo Last on the ribbon reverses the last action in a single step.
- Where does the result go?
- A live SVG chart shape (auto-refresh and edit).
- Does it update when the source data changes?
- Yes. It redraws automatically whenever the cells you linked change.
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