This document provides information on histograms and how to create them in Excel. It defines a histogram as a graphical representation of data distribution using bins to count the number of data points within a given range. It explains that histograms can visualize data variation, central tendencies, and range. The document then provides step-by-step instructions for using Excel's built-in function to generate a histogram, including selecting the data range, determining the number and size of bins, and generating an output table and optional chart.

1. 1 Proprietary and Confidential
What is a Histogram?
 Histograms are a graphical
representation of the distribution of a
data set
 The summarize data in “Bins” that count
the number of data within a certain
range
 Bins are just subdivisions of the range of
data, usually divided into smaller, equal
intervals
 Why Use: Visual representation of data
variation, central tendencies, range.
Snapshot of data taken from process
 When to use: summarize large data,
compare process results, communicate
information, assist in decision making
 Example: Emergent lab results (time
from order to results reported)
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
0
2
4
6
8
10
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14
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
Frequency
Bin
Histogram
Frequency Cumulative %

2. 2 Proprietary and Confidential
Creating a Histogram with Excel’s Built In Function
 Before you begin, the first step is to find the range
of data. I have data listed in column C
 Find the range by using Min/Max
 =Min(Data Range)
 =Max(Data Range)
 Determine how many bins you want and divide the
max by that number to find the bin steps (round up
to the nearest whole number. Start with the bin
step as the first bin.
 Create a list of bins that you would like to use (for
example: if you would like to have 5 bins between
25 and 125, the step would be 25 and the bins
would be: 25, 50, 75, 100, 125)
 Navigate to the “Data Analysis” option under the
data tab (this is for excel 2010, please see link
before for other versions).
 A popup will appear where you can select
“Histogram”
For steps on enabling Analysis ToolPak, please see this MS Support Article: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/214269

3. 3 Proprietary and Confidential
Creating a Histogram with Excel’s Built in Function
 Input Range will be the data range
 Bin Range will be the range where you
defined your bins
 There are several other options:
 Pareto – sorts the data from largest bin to
smallest bin
 Cumulative % - gives you the cumulative % of
each bin, plus all previous bins
 Chart Output – creates a chart based on the data
 After making your selections, press “OK”
 Excel will process the information and
provide you a data table and chart (if
selected)