If there are a lot a of data values it
is much easier to create histograms using
Excel. Excel uses a method that is rather
idiosyncratic, so bear with me while I
explain it!
To use Excel you first create a 'bin
range'. This contains the highest value
that should go into each bin (the upper
boundary). I have created the 'bin range'
in cells H4:H8. The first bin value '20'
will contain all values up to and including
20:
When you have created the
bin range, go to the ‘Data Analysis’ function
under the ‘Tools’ menu and select 'histogram':
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If you can't see the 'Data Analysis'
function, click
here
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Specify the 'Input Range', 'Bin Range'
and 'Output Range'. I've also checked
'Chart Output'. The Bin Range is not mandatory,
if you don't supply a Bin Range Excel
will calculate bin values for you:
After pressing 'OK' Excel will add the
frequency table to the spreadsheet:
Note that it has repeated the bin range:
- the bin of value '20' contains the
number of values up to and including
20
- the bin of value '40' contains the
number of values that are greater than
20, up to and including 40
- the bin labeled 'More' contains all
the values greater than the top bin
'100' (none in this case)
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Pass your mouse over the image
to see the original values, without
the frequency table.
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spreadsheet
