Excel Donut Chart with Number in Middle

Gregory Jul 09, 2026

Ever wanted to create an Excel donut chart with a number in the middle? You're in the right place. This visual aid is perfect for presenting key data points or percentages in a clear, engaging way. Let's dive into how to create one step-by-step.

How to Create a Sliced Donut Chart in Excel | Easy Step-by-Step Guide
How to Create a Sliced Donut Chart in Excel | Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Before we start, ensure you're using Excel 2016 or later, as the process differs in older versions. Also, familiarize yourself with the data you'll be using, as it should be in a single column for ease of use.

Donut Chart - Learn about this chart and tools to create it
Donut Chart - Learn about this chart and tools to create it

Creating the Donut Chart

The first step is to create a pie chart, which we'll later convert into a donut chart.

Semi-Donut Chart with 7 Parts for PowerPoint and Google Slides
Semi-Donut Chart with 7 Parts for PowerPoint and Google Slides

Select your data, then click on 'Insert' in the ribbon. Choose 'Pie' and select the type of pie chart that best fits your data. We'll use 'Pie of Pie' for this example.

Adding Data Labels

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How to build a fantastic 10-minute Tableau Donut chart!

Now, let's add data labels to display the percentages. Right-click on the chart and select 'Add Data Labels'. This will add labels to each slice of the pie.

To format these labels, right-click on one of them and select 'Format Data Labels'. Here, you can change the font size, color, and other formatting options. Ensure the labels are clear and easy to read.

Creating the Donut Hole

Double Doughnut Chart in Excel
Double Doughnut Chart in Excel

To create the donut shape, we'll remove a slice from the pie. Right-click on the chart and select 'Select Data'. In the 'Select Data Source' dialog box, click on the slice you want to remove and then click 'Remove'.

This will leave a hole in the middle of your chart, creating the donut shape. If the hole is too small, you can adjust the chart area by right-clicking on the chart and selecting 'Format Selection'. In the 'Format Selection' pane, under 'Size & Properties', adjust the 'Plot Area' width and height.

Adding a Number in the Middle

Doughnut Chart for Excel Dashboards: Simple and Easy way! [Excel Free Template]
Doughnut Chart for Excel Dashboards: Simple and Easy way! [Excel Free Template]

Now, let's add a number or text in the middle of the donut. This could be a total, a key figure, or a brief message.

To do this, right-click on the chart and select 'Add Chart Element' > 'Text'. This will add a text box to your chart. You can then type or paste your number or text into this box.

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Formatting the Center Text

To make the center text stand out, you can format it. Right-click on the text box and select 'Format Text Box'. Here, you can change the font size, color, and style. You can also adjust the position of the text box to center it perfectly in the donut.

If you want to add a border or background color to the text box, you can do so in the 'Format Text Box' pane. This can help the text stand out even more.

And there you have it! Your Excel donut chart with a number in the middle is now complete. This chart type can be a great way to present data in a clear, engaging way. Why not try creating a few different versions to see what works best for your data?