In this session, we dive into the process of creating maps in Excel using the Bing Maps add-in. Designed for visualizing geographical data, this add-in helps you represent variations across states, cities, or countries. Using a small dataset, the video guides you through selecting data, inserting maps, and customizing visual elements like pie charts and color schemes. Learn how to format your data correctly and explore the settings available to ensure accurate and meaningful map representations.

What will you learn

  • How to prepare your data for mapping in Excel.
  • Steps to insert Bing Maps in your Excel workbook.
  • The importance of correct geographical data (city, state, or country names).
  • How to switch between different chart types, like pie charts and circles.
  • Tips for customizing colors and map types.
  • Adding and removing data points using filters.
  • Ensuring the map includes a legend for clarity.

Takeaway notes

  • Data Preparation: Ensure that the first column contains accurate city, state, or country names in correct spelling and in English.
  • Inserting Maps: Access Bing Maps from the Insert tab or use the Tools tab if available.
  • Map Customization: Change chart types (e.g., pie chart, circles), modify colors, and switch between 2D and practical map types.
  • Data Filtering: Learn to add filters for showing or hiding specific data points.
  • Legend: Always include a legend to make your map easier to understand.

Practice questions

  1. What is the first step in creating a map in Excel using Bing Maps?
  2. How should the data be structured for Excel’s geocoding to work correctly?
  3. Why is it important to have accurate city, state, or country names in the first column?
  4. Describe how to insert a Bing Map in Excel.
  5. What alternatives might be available if you don't see the maps button in the Insert tab on your Excel version?
  6. Explain how to switch from a pie chart to circles on a Bing Map.
  7. How can you change the color scheme of a pie chart in Bing Maps?
  8. What type of maps can you switch between in Bing Maps?
  9. How do you add a filter to the map to hide specific data points?
  10. What is the significance of including a legend in your map representation?
  11. If you notice that your map data is not accurately pinpointing locations, what could be the possible causes?
  12. Demonstrate how to correct the spelling errors in the data to improve map accuracy.
  13. Describe a scenario where switching from city names to state names might be more informative.
  14. How do you troubleshoot if Bing Maps takes a long time to load your data?
  15. Why might the map not accurately represent specific data points when combining city and country names in the dataset?

Mark Lesson Complete (How to Create Maps in Excel Using Bing Maps)