Use Excel creatively: How to create a lollipop chart

A standard Excel lollipop chart template does not exist — but with one formula and two Unicode symbols, you can build a compelling visual in minutes. The chart creation process uses the REPEAT() function to scale a dash character proportionally to each data value, with a circle symbol appended to complete the lollipop shape. Once the base is in place, data visualisation gains further impact through a conditional formatting rule that automatically highlights the highest value in bold green. The result is a clean, proportional chart that communicates trends at a glance — far more effectively than a standard column of figures. Read on for the full step-by-step guide to building and formatting your lollipop chart in Excel.