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Chart & Visualization Issues

Fix Missing Donut Chart Percentages in Excel for the Web

Algirdas JasaitisAlgirdas Jasaitis Sep 27, 2026 870 views

Question details

Users are experiencing an issue where donut chart percentages displayed inside linked text boxes are visible in desktop Excel but fail to appear in Excel for the Web.

Fix Missing Donut Chart Percentages in Excel for the Web
Product
Microsoft Excel for the Web
Device & OS
not provided
Scenario
Viewing or sharing an Excel workbook containing a donut chart with linked percentage data in a web browser.
Observed behavior
The linked text boxes displaying percentages in the donut chart are invisible when the workbook is opened in Excel for the Web, despite rendering perfectly in the desktop application.
Before you start

Ensure you have access to the desktop version of Excel, as you will need it to modify the chart's label elements to a format supported by the web browser.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Built-in Data Labels Instead of Linked Text Boxes

Replace unsupported linked text boxes with standard chart data labels that are fully supported and visible in Excel for the Web.

Excel for the Web has limited support for dynamic shapes and linked text boxes. Using the native Data Labels feature ensures cross-platform compatibility.

1
Select the Donut Chart

Open your workbook in the desktop version of Excel and click anywhere on your donut chart to activate the chart tools.

2
Add Data Labels

Click the '+' (Chart Elements) icon that appears next to the top right corner of the chart, and check the box for 'Data Labels'.

3
Format Data Labels to Show Percentages

Right-click the newly added labels and select 'Format Data Labels'. In the side panel, check the box for 'Percentage' and uncheck 'Value'.

4
Remove Old Text Boxes

Click on the original linked text boxes that were failing to display and press the Delete key to remove them.

Use Built-in Data Labels Instead of Linked Text Boxes
Free Microsoft Office alternative

Use WPS Office for Reliable Chart Rendering

Don't let browser limitations restrict your data visualization. WPS Office provides a robust, lightweight alternative to Microsoft Office, offering full support for complex charts, linked text boxes, and advanced spreadsheet features without missing data.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx) file formats.Accurately renders complex donut charts and linked text boxes.Lightweight and completely free to download.Highly familiar user interface for a seamless transition.
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do linked text boxes disappear in Excel for the Web?

Excel for the Web is a streamlined version of the desktop application designed for browser performance. It currently does not support certain advanced graphical elements, including shapes and text boxes that dynamically link to cell values.

Can I make my donut chart look identical on both web and desktop?

Yes, but you must use universally supported features. Instead of relying on custom text boxes linked to cells, use the built-in 'Data Labels' feature within the chart settings, which renders perfectly across all versions.

Is my chart data lost if it doesn't show up online?

No, your data is completely safe. The issue is purely visual within the browser. If you download the file or open it in the desktop version of Excel, the linked text box and its percentage will reappear instantly.