How to Add a Secondary X-Axis in Excel (Step-by-Step Guide)

Dataset Overview

When working with data in Excel, you might need to create a chart that displays two different sets of values on separate X-axes. For instance, suppose you have a dataset showing the values of the 2nd and 3rd powers of numbers, and you want to plot a graph illustrating their patterns. Additionally, you want to display X² values on the primary horizontal axis and X³ values on the secondary horizontal axis.

Step 1 – Create a Scatter Chart in Excel

• Prepare Your Data:
  • Organize your data in two columns: one for X² values and another for X³ values.
  • Make sure the data is ready for plotting.

• Insert a Scatter Chart:
  • Select the data range.
  • Go to the Insert tab.
  • Choose the Scatter chart type.

• Customize the Scatter Chart:
  • Your scatter chart will now display both series of data.

Step 2 – Enable the Secondary Horizontal Axis

• Select the Chart:
  • Click on the scatter chart to activate it.

• Access Chart Elements:
  • Look for the plus (+) icon that appears on the top-right corner of the chart.
  • Click it to reveal the chart elements.

• Enable the Secondary Horizontal Axis:
  • Within the chart elements, locate the Axes box (usually marked by default).
  • Click the arrow next to Axes to expand the options.
  • Check the box for Secondary Horizontal Axis to enable it. This will display the secondary X-axis on your chart.

Read More: How to Add Secondary Axis in Excel

Step 3 – Add Axes Titles to the Secondary X Axis

• Access Chart Elements Again:
  • Click on the scatter chart to activate it.
  • Look for the arrow next to Axis Titles.

• Add Titles to the Secondary X-Axis:
  • Click on the Secondary Horizontal option to add axis titles.

• • Rename the axis titles as needed.

Read More: How to Combine Graphs with Different X Axis in Excel

Troubleshooting – Excel Not Showing Secondary Horizontal Axis Option

If you don’t see the option to add a secondary horizontal axis, follow these additional steps:

The screenshot below serves as an example of a situation where secondary horizontal axes option is unavailable.

• Enable Secondary Axes Manually:
  • Right-click on one of the data series in your chart.
  • Select Format Plot Area.

• In the Format Data Series window, choose the Secondary Axes option under Series Options.
• This will enable the secondary vertical axis.

• Access Axes Options Again:
  • Go back to the chart elements.
  • You should now find the secondary axes options available.

Read More: How to Hide Secondary Axis in Excel Without Losing Data

Download Practice Workbook

You can download the practice workbook from here:

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