formatting the column/bar of a graph

[Guest]

How do I set the transparency of a bar or column in a graph. Have gone to
Format Data Series - Fill effects, but the transparency is greyed out.

 

[Guest]

Method 1:
On the Patterns tab Area section choose None


Or Method 2
1. Select an empty cell
2. Hold down the Shift key and choose Edit, Copy Picture, OK
3. Select the series on the chart and choose Paste.

 

[Jon Peltier]

That selection is only available in Mac Excel, at least until Excel 2007.
John Walkenbach describes a technique that works for bar or column charts:

http://www.j-walk.com/ss/excel/usertips/tip071.htm

- Jon

 

[Guest]

Hi,

I realize I did not make my self very clear.

1. Add a rectangle to the spreadsheet (using the Drawing toolbar)
2. Double-click it and apply Fill Effects (here you will be able to use
gradient fills with transparency)
3. With the rectangle select choose copy
4. Select the series and choose paste