Preserve Chart Design in Excel – Save and Reapply Chart Templates

Preserve Chart Design When Updating Data in Excel

If your Excel chart formatting changes or resets when you refresh the data, there’s an easy way to prevent it. By saving your chart as a template before updating the data, you can instantly reapply your preferred design — colors, layout, and formatting — in seconds.

💡 Why Save Chart Templates in Excel?

When updating linked data, Excel sometimes resets chart colors or axis formatting. Using the Save as Template feature helps you keep a consistent visual design across dashboards and reports — a must for professional Excel dashboards and presentations.

🛠️ Step 1: Save the Chart Design as a Template

1. Click the chart you want to preserve.
2. Right-click anywhere inside the chart area.
3. Select Save as Template.
4. Enter a name and click OK.

This saves your chart’s custom colors, fonts, and styles for future use. The template file (.crtx) can be applied to any chart later on.

🔄 Step 2: Reapply the Saved Chart Template After Updating Data

1. Once you refresh or change your data source, select the chart again.
2. Go to Chart Tools → Change Chart Type.
3. Choose the Templates tab.
4. Select your saved design and click OK.

Excel instantly restores your chart’s layout and style — saving time and ensuring visual consistency throughout your report.

✅ Benefits of Using Chart Templates

• Maintain consistent visual identity across multiple dashboards
• Save time on repetitive formatting tasks
• Ensure accuracy when presenting data visually
• Apply the same design across multiple charts or sheets

💡 Pro Tip

Store your chart templates in a shared folder if you collaborate with a team. This ensures everyone applies the same professional design standard across all Excel dashboards and reports.

🎓 Learn More with Other Levels

Enhance your Excel skills and learn how to design professional dashboards and charts:

• 🌐 Visit the Other Levels Website
• 📺 Watch free tutorials on the Other Levels YouTube Channel to master Excel dashboard design from beginner to advanced.

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