What it shows
Compares actual and target side by side for each category, revealing the gap.
When to use it
It is most useful when comparing target and actual by product or region in one chart. It is aimed mainly at analysts, managers, report authors.
Example scenarios
- Comparing target and actual by product or region in one chart.
- Analysts: compares actual and target side by side for each category, revealing the gap.
What it needs
Columns for the category labels, the actual values and the target 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
Target vs Actual 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
- 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.
- Does Target vs Actual change my source data?
- No. Target vs Actual leaves your source data untouched and adds the result as a separate item.
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