How to create a Horizontal bar stacked proportions

A 100% stacked horizontal bar chart. Each bar totals to 100%, showing relative percentages between components in each category.

When to use a Horizontal bar stacked proportions chart

This format is ideal when you need to:

  • Show the percentage breakdown of each category, with every bar totaling 100%.

  • Compare relative proportions across categories rather than focusing on absolute values.

  • Highlight distribution patterns within groups using a horizontal layout.

  • Improve readability for categories with long labels or when vertical space is limited.

How to build a Horizontal bar stacked proportions chart

  • In the Explore Data tool, go to the Build Your Chart step.

  • Under the Type tab, select Horizontal bar stacked proportions.

  • Here is an example:

💡 Tips for Horizontal bar stacked proportions chart

  1. Normalises totals for composition comparison: All bars equal 100%, making it easy to compare relative breakdowns even when group sizes differ.

  2. Use when totals distract from your insight: Great for showing what proportion of each category falls into each group, especially when totals vary widely.

  3. Avoid too many segments: Limit the number of segments in each bar (ideally <5) to prevent visual overload.