How to add multiple X axis in Google Sheets

When we have two different yet related pieces of information then we need to show them on Y-axis on a single chart. Excel secondary axis allows us to show two Y-axis data series with two different scales using the same X-axis. We will learn how to add secondary axis in Excel based on following versions;

Table of Contents Show

Using Excel 2010 and Earlier Versions
Creating a Chart
Add Secondary Data Series
Using Excel 2013 and Later Versions

Using Excel 2010 and Earlier Versions
Using Excel 2013 and Later Versions

Figure 1. How to Add Secondary Axis in Excel

Using Excel 2010 and Earlier Versions

We can create one data series at a time on a secondary axis. But when the values of data series vary then we can plot more than one data series on secondary axis Excel. Suppose we have monthly revenue and profit margin data series in terms of dollar amounts and percentages in a table range B1:D7.

Figure 2. Data Series Table

Creating a Chart

We select the data table B1: D7 and create the 2-D chart in Excel 2010 and earlier versions by following these steps;

Click on Insert tab and go to Charts section
Click on Column and select 2-D Clustered Column Chart

Figure 3. Selecting 2-D Clustered Column Chart

A 2-D Clustered Column chart is generated showing Months in X-axis and Revenue on Y-axis (primary axis). But we need to show Profit Margin data series on the secondary axis.

Figure 4. Creating 2-D Clustered Column Chart

Add Secondary Data Series

To add the second Y axis Excel 2010, we must have the 2-D chart secondary axis are not supported in 3-D charts. We need to follow the below steps to add secondary data series (Profit Margin) on Y-axis;

Click the Chart
Go to Chart Tools > Select Format tab
From Current Selection click on Chart Element drop-down arrow
Select series Profit Margin

Figure 5. Adding a Secondary Data Series

Click on Format Selection in Current Section to open Format Data Series dialog
Select Secondary Axis from Plot Series On options

Figure 6. Format Secondary Data Series

Figure 7. Secondary Axis Excel

In the Chart Area, click on secondary data series bar (Profit Margin)
Go to Design tab > From Type section click on Change Chart Type
Select the Line Chart type for Excel Secondary Axis

Figure 8. Changing Chart Type For Secondary Data Series

Figure 9. Secondary Axis Excel 2010

Using Excel 2013 and Later Versions

To add secondary axis Excel 2013 and later versions we need to follow the following procedure while setting up the secondary data series (Profit Margin) in 2-D Clustered Column chart.

Select Data Table B1: D7 and Insert 2-D Clustered Column Chart

Figure 10. Inserting 2-D Column Chart

Click on chart to open Chart Tools. Go to Design > Change Chart Type.

Figure 11. Change Chart Type

Select Combo > Cluster Column Line on Secondary Axis.
Choose Secondary Axis for the data series Profit Margin.
Click the drop-down arrow and choose Line.
Press the OK button.

Figure 12. Add Secondary Axis Excel 2013

Figure 13. Secondary Axis Excel

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