Turning the Legend On and Off

When you create a chart in Excel, the Wizard that you follow may create a chart legend, depending on the type of chart you are using. You are not limited to the Wizard's decision, however. You have complete control over whether a legend is displayed on your chart. Follow these steps:

1. Click once on the legend to select it. Handles should appear around the perimeter of the legend.
2. Choose Chart Options from the Chart menu. Excel displays the Chart Options dialog box. (Click here to see a related figure.)
3. Make sure the Legend tab is selected.
4. Clear the Show Legend check box.
5. Click on OK.

If you are using Excel 2007, then you need to follow a different set of steps:

1. Click once on the legend to select it. Handles should appear around the perimeter of the legend.
2. Choose the Layout tab on the ribbon. (This tab is visible only when the legend is selected.)
3. In the Labels group, click the Legend drop-down list.
4. Choose None from the options in the drop-down list.