How to Chart Ratios

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If you have a list of ratios that you would like to turn into a graph or chart, then you will need to convert the ratios to decimals first. Enter those decimals in organized cells in Microsoft Excel's spreadsheet program. Then select a graph or chart design located on Excel's graphics toolbar. You also can convert your ratios to decimals and draw free-form charts to represent your data. This project is a good exercise for children trying to learn how to work with ratios and decimals.

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Things You'll Need

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  • Calculator
  • Computer paper
  • Pencil
  • Ruler

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Microsoft Excel Chart

Step 1

Convert all of your ratios to decimals. To do this you will divide the first number by the second number. For example, if your ratio is 10:2, you will divide 10/2.

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Step 2

Type the ratios in cells "A2," "B2," "C2," "D2," and so on. For example, you will type the following:A2 -- 2:8B2 -- 4:3C2 -- 6:10D2 -- 12:2

Step 3

Enter the decimals you arrive at from dividing your ratios into cells "A3," "B3," "C3," "D3," and so on down the line.

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Step 4

Highlight cell "A3" through "D3" by pressing "Shift" and the right arrow button. Click "Insert," followed by the "Column" button. Select a 2-D or a 3-D column by clicking the button once. Your converted ratios will appear in a bar chart on your screen.

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Converting Ratios to Decimals

Step 1

Write down your set of ratios on a piece of paper. Each ratio will correspond with a letter that you will mark on a chart. An example of this is as follows:A -- 10:5B -- 24:4C --16:4

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Step 2

Convert your first ratio to a decimal. To do this, type "10" in your calculator, the division symbol, and "5."

Step 3

Convert your second and third ratios to decimals using a calculator. The answers for A, B, and C are as follows:A -- 2.0B -- 6.0C -- 4.0

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Make a Line Chart

Step 1

Draw a horizontal line across the bottom of your sheet of paper using a ruler.

Step 2

Connect the left end of the horizontal line with a vertical line along the left edge of the paper.

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Step 3

Write numerals 1-6 along the vertical, y-axis. Write "A," "B," and "C" about three inches apart along the horizontal, x-axis.

Step 4

Plot your decimals. To do so, place your finger on "A." Then travel up your paper until you reach "2.0." Draw a dot. Place your finger on "B." Travel up to "6.0." Draw a dot. Place your finger on "C." Travel up your paper, and draw a dot at "4.0."

Step 5

Connect your dots into a line using your ruler.

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