A 100% stacked bar chart where each bar totals to 100%, highlighting percentage composition within each category.
When to use a Vertical bar stacked proportions chart
This format is ideal when you need to:
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Show the percentage breakdown of categories within a total where each bar always equals 100%.
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Compare relative proportions across groups rather than absolute values.
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Highlight how different segments contribute to a whole in a consistent, normalised format.
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Focus on distribution and composition across categories, especially when total values vary.
How to build a Vertical bar stacked proportions chart
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In the Explore Data tool, go to the Build Your Chart step.
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Under the Type tab, select Vertical bar stacked proportions.
- Here is an example:
đź’ˇ Tips for Vertical bar stacked proportions chart
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Use when comparing composition across groups of varying sizes: This chart normalises all bars to 100%, making it easier to focus on composition rather than raw counts—ideal for comparing groups of different sizes.
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Avoid when total values matter: Avoid this chart if understanding absolute values is important because it masks differences in group size. You can, however, hover over the proportion bars to see the underlying value.
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Use contrasting colours for clearer segment separation: Distinct, high-contrast colours improve readability, especially when many segments are close in value.
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Limit number of segments: Try to keep the number of segments within each bar manageable (ideally under 5–6), to avoid clutter and improve readability.