Use the template
Replace the monthly values in Manual Entry. Add columns for additional series or rows for additional periods. Use consistent intervals and include the currency or unit in the chart title or series headers.
Read beyond the latest value
Look for sustained direction, seasonal repetition, sudden breaks, and whether the series move together. A line chart is useful because the path matters; use bars if only one month's product comparison is important.
Frequently asked questions
Can I add another sales series?
Yes. Add a column in Manual Entry and use the header for the new product, region, or channel name.
Should missing months be zero?
Only use zero when the measured value was truly zero. A missing observation and a zero observation have different meanings.