Chart & Visualization Issues

How to Create a Custom Chart Template in Excel for Mac

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is trying to create and save a custom graph or chart template but is unable to find the correct options to do so.

Product: Excel for Microsoft 365
Device & OS: MacBook Pro (macOS)
Scenario: Attempting to save a frequently used, specially formatted chart design as a reusable template to apply to future datasets.
Observed behavior: The user cannot successfully save the chart as a template, potentially due to missing menu options in their specific Excel version.

Before you start

Ensure you click on the outer edge of the chart to select the entire chart area, as right-clicking specific inner elements (like the plot area or a data series) may hide the template option.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the 'Save as Template' Context Menu Option

The standard method for creating a reusable chart template in Excel is through the right-click context menu of a fully formatted chart.

In most up-to-date versions of Excel for Microsoft 365 on macOS, chart templates are natively supported. You must ensure the main chart object is selected for the correct menu to appear.

Format your base chart

Insert a standard chart into your worksheet and apply all your desired customizations, including colors, fonts, gridlines, and data labels.

Select the entire chart

Click the outermost border of the chart. Verify that the selection handles encompass the whole chart area, not just a single axis or title.

Access the context menu

Right-click (or Control-click) on the selected chart area to bring up the options menu.

Save the template

Click on 'Save as Template' from the dropdown list. Give your template a recognizable name and click 'Save'. It will be stored as a .crtx file in the default Chart Templates folder.

Missing Option Troubleshooting: If the 'Save as Template' option is missing, it may be restricted by your current Office build. You should check your exact macOS version, Office version, and the specific chart type being used, as certain newer dynamic charts (like Sunburst or Waterfall) may not support templates.

WPS Spreadsheet Chart Solutions

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If you are experiencing feature limitations or missing options in your current spreadsheet software, WPS Office provides a powerful, free alternative. It features intuitive chart customization, rich templates, and a familiar interface on Mac.

1. Open WPS Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Office on your Mac and open a new or existing workbook containing your data.
2. Insert a Chart: Highlight your data range, navigate to the 'Insert' tab on the top ribbon, and click 'Chart' to choose your preferred visualization type.
3. Customize Chart Design: Use the floating Chart Tools menu that appears next to the chart to quickly apply predefined styles, change color schemes, or adjust layout elements.
4. Save Your Customization: Save your customized workbook. You can easily duplicate the formatted chart and swap the data source for future reporting needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Excel chart templates saved on a Mac?

By default, Excel for Mac saves chart templates (.crtx files) in the user Library folder. The typical path is ~/Library/Group Containers/UBF8T346G9.Office/User Content/Chart Templates.

Why is the 'Save as Template' option missing or greyed out?

This usually happens if you have selected a specific sub-element inside the chart (like the legend or an axis) rather than the main chart border. It can also occur if you are using an older, unpatched version of Excel for Mac, or if you are trying to save a chart type that does not support templates (such as Map or Funnel charts).

How do I apply a saved chart template to new data on Mac?

Highlight your new data set, go to the Insert tab, and click on Recommended Charts or the Charts icon. Navigate to the Templates tab, select your saved custom template, and click OK to apply it.

Can I share my custom chart template with colleagues?

Yes. You can locate the .crtx file in your Mac's Chart Templates folder and send it to others via email or file sharing. They simply need to save that file into their own Chart Templates folder to use it in their Excel application.

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