Waffle Chart

A waffle chart uses a grid of small squares (100 total) to show proportions. In PrettyChart, the number of filled squares for each category represents its share of the total (about 1 square per 1%). It’s a great alternative to a pie chart when you want a more “readable” percentage grid, while keeping a clean single-color look.

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Example generated in PrettyChart

How to create a Waffle chart

Begin with your data (CSV/Excel or spreadsheet) — or sketch a Waffle chart using Draw Chart.
Optional: upload an existing chart image and extract the data, then review and fix any mistakes.
Use AI recommendations (optional) to pick a chart type and a design direction, then customize manually if needed.
Map columns: pick a Label column and select your Value column (numbers).
Pick a template and theme, then fine-tune colors, patterns, and light effects for your Waffle design.
Export a crisp PNG when it looks right (or keep iterating).

Create in PrettyChart → Or start with Draw Chart →

When to use

You want a parts-of-a-whole view (like pie/donut), but in a grid
You want easy “by-eye” percentage estimation (1 square ≈ 1%)
3-7 categories
Infographic or report context
Showing progress (e.g., 73%)

When to avoid

Many categories (becomes tiny and hard to scan)
You need very precise small differences (labels/values are better)
Your data is better shown as a trend over time (use line/area)

Data requirements

1 Label column

1+ Value column

1+ Data row

Data format: One column for category names, one column for values

Common use cases

Parts-of-a-whole breakdowns

Progress toward goals

Percentage-style summaries

Infographic design

Waffle chart comparisons

Waffle Chart vs Pie Chart

Use pie/donut for parts-of-a-whole. Use bars when you need accurate comparisons across many categories.

Pie Chart →

Waffle Chart vs Donut Chart

Use pie/donut for parts-of-a-whole. Use bars when you need accurate comparisons across many categories.

Donut Chart →

Styling a Waffle chart

Keep labels readable: fewer categories and shorter labels make a Waffle chart look cleaner.
If you're exporting, use a high-contrast theme so text and marks stay readable.
If elements blend together, try a gentle pattern or light effect for separation.
If you need to compare many categories, consider a Horizontal Bar chart for better label space.

FAQ

What is a Waffle chart?

Waffle charts turn your dataset into a clear visual using: One column for category names, one column for values. They're a good fit for parts-of-a-whole breakdowns.

When is a Waffle chart the right choice?

Use a Waffle chart when you want a parts-of-a-whole view (like pie/donut), but in a grid and you want easy “by-eye” percentage estimation (1 square ≈ 1%). It works best when labels and values match the requirements on this page.

Can I upload CSV/Excel to generate a Waffle chart?

Import CSV/Excel, choose the label/value columns, then style your Waffle 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 Waffle 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 Waffle chart in the editor.