Add graph data

Last updated on Oct 27, 2025

Learn how to add data for graphs in Adobe Illustrator.

Before you begin

Make sure you've created a graph using the Column Graph tool.

Select the graph with the Selection tool, and then select Object > Graph > Data to open the Graph Data window.

Select a cell in the worksheet and enter the data into the text box.

Use the following keys to navigate:

  • Tab: Enter the data and move to the next cell in the same row.
  • Enter or Return: Enter the data and select the next cell in the same column.
  • Arrow keys: Move from cell to cell or select another cell to enter data.
Graph in Adobe Illustrator with the Graph Data window open, showing numerical values entered into cells.
Use the Graph Data window to enter, paste, or import values that build your graph.

Tip

You can also copy data from Lotus® 1‑2‑3 or Microsoft Excel. Select the desired cell in the Graph Data window and then choose Edit > Paste to insert the data. To import data, create a tab-separated text file with line breaks for rows. Use decimal points or commas, for example, 732000 and not 732,000. Select Import Data , and choose your file.

Select Apply or press Enter (Windows) or Return (macOS) to regenerate the graph.

To switch the columns and rows of data, select Transpose row/column . To switch the x and y axes of scatter graphs, select Switch x/y .