To make Excel "3D," you typically use the 3D Maps feature, which allows you to visualize geographical and temporal data on a 3D globe or custom map.
What is Excel 3D Maps?
3D Maps (formerly Power Map) is a data visualization tool that comes with Microsoft Excel. It lets you explore your data geographically and chronologically in a 3D environment. You can plot data on a 3D globe, show it over time, and create compelling tours to share insights.
Steps to Create a 3D Map
Creating a 3D Map in Excel is straightforward, provided your data is correctly structured. Based on the official Microsoft support guidelines, here's how you start:
-
Prepare Your Data: Ensure your data is organized in a table or a Data Model. Your data should ideally include geographical information like cities, countries, or zip codes for the 3D map to plot effectively.
-
Select Your Data: Click on any cell within the table that contains the data you wish to explore in 3D Maps.
-
Access 3D Maps: Navigate to the Insert tab on the Excel ribbon.
-
Click 3D Map: In the "Tours" group, click the 3D Map button.
- Note: If it's your first time using 3D Maps, Excel might prompt you to enable it.
- A new 3D Maps window will open, displaying your data on a globe.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Prepare Data | Organize data in a Table or Data Model |
| 2. Select Data | Click a cell within your data table |
| 3. Go to Insert Tab | Find the "Insert" ribbon tab |
| 4. Click 3D Map Button | Click the "3D Map" option in the "Tours" group |
Once the 3D Maps window opens, you can customize how your data is visualized, choosing different chart types (like columns, heat maps), adding filters, and creating scenes and tours.
For more details on getting started with this feature, you can refer to the Microsoft support page on 3D Maps.
Data Requirements for 3D Maps
For 3D Maps to function correctly, your data needs to be structured and include geographical information. Common data types that work well include:
- Geographical Fields: Street, City, County, State/Province, Zip Code, Country/Region, Latitude, Longitude.
- Date/Time Fields: For visualizing changes over time.
- Numeric Fields: For values to be plotted (e.g., sales, population).
By following these steps, you can leverage the 3D Maps feature to add a three-dimensional visualization layer to your Excel data.
