Beyond Charts: How to Insert and Use 3D Models to Bring Your Excel Data to Life

Give your spreadsheets a professional edge with interactive, dynamic visualizations.

While traditional charts (bar, line, pie) are essential for data analysis, they often lack the visual impact needed to captivate an audience. Modern Excel versions allow you to insert high-quality, fully rotational **3D Models** directly onto your worksheet, turning a drab report into an engaging presentation piece.

Step 1: Accessing the 3D Model Library

Microsoft has built a vast library of categorized 3D models directly into Excel, making the insertion process seamless:

1. Go to the **Insert** tab on the Excel ribbon.
2. Click the **3D Models** dropdown button.
3. Choose **From Online Sources...** to access the library.

You can find models categorized by theme, such as Science, Furniture, or animated Creatures. Choose a model that visually represents the data or product you are discussing (e.g., a currency symbol for a financial report or a molecule for a scientific project).

Step 2: Rotating and Resizing the Model

Once inserted, the 3D model behaves much like a standard image or shape, but with a key difference: **full rotation**.

• Resizing: Use the corner handles to scale the model up or down.
• **Rotation:** Click and drag the **rotation control** (the small compass-like icon in the middle) to spin the object on all axes. This allows you to find the perfect angle for your report.

Step 3: Using the 'Scenes' Presets

For quick formatting, use the built-in **3D Model Views** found on the 'Format' tab (which appears when the model is selected). These presets, also known as 'Scenes,' apply professional camera angles and lighting effects instantly. Experiment with different views to find the most visually impactful presentation for your data story.

Pro-Tip: Integrating with Animations (Morph Transition)

If you copy your Excel chart or model into PowerPoint, you can use the **Morph transition** between two slides—one showing the model from one angle, and the next showing it from a different angle. This creates a stunning, dynamic animation where the model smoothly rotates, perfect for high-impact presentations.

Ready to ditch the 2D charts? Start experimenting with a 3D model in your next project!