Multi-Line Chart

When you need to compare how multiple things change over the same time period, the multi-line chart is your answer. Each line represents a different item (like different products, regions, or metrics), and you can easily see how they move together or apart. This makes it perfect for competitive analysis or tracking multiple related metrics simultaneously.

Create chart Browse all

Example generated in PrettyChart

How to create a Multi-Line chart

Create a Multi-Line chart by uploading CSV/Excel, pasting data, or sketching it with Draw Chart.
Optional: upload a chart image and let PrettyChart extract the numbers (you can edit anything afterward).
After upload, you can use AI recommendations to choose a chart type and a suggested visual style (optional).
Select your Label column and select two or more Value columns (each becomes a series).
Apply a template and theme, then tweak colors and effects to make the Multi-Line chart look exactly right.
Export a high-quality PNG when you're happy with the result.

Create in PrettyChart → Or start with Draw Chart →

When to use

Comparing 2-5 series over time
Looking for correlation or divergence
Series share the same scale
Time alignment matters

When to avoid

More than 5-6 lines (spaghetti effect)
Lines have very different scales
Lines overlap heavily

Data requirements

1 Label column

2+ Value columns

2+ Data rows

Data format: One label column (time) + multiple value columns (each becomes a line)

Common use cases

Comparing product performance

Regional trends side-by-side

Multiple KPI tracking

Competitive benchmarking

Multi-Line chart comparisons

Multi-Line Chart vs Line Chart

Use bars to compare discrete points (e.g., monthly totals). Use a line chart to show continuous trends and patterns over time.

Line Chart →

Multi-Line Chart vs Stacked Area Chart

Choose a Multi-Line chart when it matches your data format (one label column (time) + multiple value columns (each becomes a line)).

Stacked Area Chart →

Styling a Multi-Line chart

Prioritize readability: shorter labels and fewer categories make a Multi-Line chart easier to scan.
For presentations, pick a theme with strong contrast between text and background.
Use subtle patterns or a light effect if bars/areas feel too flat or hard to separate.
For dense time series, consider switching to a Line chart for a clearer trend story.

FAQ

What is a Multi-Line chart?

Multi-Line charts turn your dataset into a clear visual using: One label column (time) + multiple value columns (each becomes a line). They're a good fit for comparing product performance.

When is a Multi-Line chart the right choice?

Use a Multi-Line chart when comparing 2-5 series over time and looking for correlation or divergence. It works best when labels and values match the requirements on this page.

Can I upload CSV/Excel to generate a Multi-Line chart?

Import CSV/Excel, choose the label/value columns, then style your Multi-Line chart and export as PNG.

Does PrettyChart recommend a chart type and design automatically?

Yes. You can use AI recommendations after upload, or ignore them and choose chart type + style yourself.

Can I create a Multi-Line chart by drawing or from an existing chart image?

Yes. You can start with Draw Chart (sketching) or upload an existing chart image to extract data, then refine the Multi-Line chart in the editor.