How to Add Data Labels to a Scatter Plot in Excel (2 Methods)

Dataset Overview

Suppose we have a Weight List of 10 individuals. We want to plot the Weight according to the Name of the individual in a Scatter Plot. Also, we want to add data labels to the chart to make it more understandable.

Method 1 – Using the Chart Elements Options

Create the Scatter Plot:

First, select the cells in the B4:C14 range. These columns represent the Names and Weights (lbs) of the individuals.
Go to the Insert tab and choose Insert Scatter (X, Y) or Bubble Chart > Scatter.

The scatter plot will visualize our data table.

Add Data Labels:

Switch to the Chart Design tab.
Click Add Chart Element in the ribbon and select Data Labels from the drop-down list.
Click More Data Label Options to open the Format Data Labels task pane.

In the Label Options, check the box for Value From Cells.
Select the cells in the B5:B14 range (containing individual names) as the data label range.
Click OK.

Uncheck the box for Y Value in the Label Options.

Our Scatter Plot with data labels looks like the one below.

Fine-Tune Data Labels:

To address partially unified labels, double-click the data label for James.

In the Format Data Label task pane, set the Label Position to Above.

For better visibility, select the James label again and go to Effects.

Under the Shadow category, choose a shadow style.

Now your scatter plot with clear data labels is ready.

With the data range, our Scatter Plot with data labels looks like the one below.

Method 2 – Applying Excel VBA Code

Open the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) Window:

Right-click on the sheet name (VBA).
Select View Code from the options.

The Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications window will open.

Insert a Code Module:

Go to the Insert tab and select Module.

This opens a code module where you can paste the following VBA code:

Sub AddDataLabels()
If Left(TypeName(Selection), 5) <> "Chart" Then
MsgBox "Please select the scatter plot first."
Exit Sub
End If
Set StartLabel = _
Application.InputBox("Click on the cell containing the first label", Type:=8)
Application.ScreenUpdating = False
For Each pt In ActiveChart.SeriesCollection(1).Points
pt.ApplyDataLabels xlDataLabelsShowValue
pt.DataLabel.Caption = StartLabel.Value
Set StartLabel = StartLabel.Offset(1)
Next
End Sub

Explanation of VBA Code:

The AddDataLabels macro checks if a scatter plot is selected. If not, it displays a message.
An input box prompts you to select the cell containing the first label.
The code applies data labels to each point in the scatter plot, using the values from the specified range.