Chart Labels Print Inside a White Box (159780)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Excel 97 for Windows
  • Microsoft Excel for Windows 95
  • Microsoft Excel for Windows 5.0

This article was previously published under Q159780

SYMPTOMS

When you print or print preview a chart in Microsoft Excel, data labels within the chart may print inside a white box.

CAUSE

This behavior may occur if the data labels exist in front of a shaded area in the chart: for example, the plot area.

This behavior is by design of Microsoft Excel.

WORKAROUND

Set the background of the labels to Transparent to prevent this problem:

  1. In the chart, double-click the axis to which the labels are attached, or double-click the labels themselves (if they are attached to a series).
  2. Click the Font tab.
  3. In the Background list, click Transparent.
  4. Click OK.
The labels should now print and print preview correctly.

MORE INFORMATION

When you print a chart in Microsoft Excel, data labels that exist in front of a shaded area in the chart print inside of a white box. This occurs because labels may not appear correctly if they print in front of a shaded background. Printing the labels inside a white box assures that the labels print clearly and legibly.

If you format your labels to have a Transparent background, they may not print correctly if your printer prints at a resolution of 300 dots per inch or lower, or if the labels' color is very similar to the background color.

Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:8/17/2005
Keywords:kbprint kbualink97 KB159780