> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.fabricplan.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.fabricplan.com/documentation/plan/intelligence-sheets/how-tos/apply-ibcs-formats/area-and-line-charts.md). # Area and line charts IBCS area and line charts help visualize trends, patterns, and changes over time using standardized layouts and semantic formatting. Use these charts to track business performance, compare actual and reference values, and communicate trends consistently across reports. ### C07: Line chart An IBCS line chart visualizes trends and changes across sequential time periods. It is best suited for tracking KPIs such as revenue, profit, expenses, or inventory over time. Analyze growth patterns, seasonal trends, and changes in performance.

Configuration option	Configuration value
Chart type	Line
Category	Assign the dimension that defines the columns along the x-axis. Example: Month.
Actual(s)	Assign one or more measures to analyze. The values determine the position of each data point on the y-axis, and the connected points form the trend line. Example: Profit - Actual.
Comparison 1 (vs Actuals)	Assign the previous year's actuals measure for comparison. The chart displays the comparison measure as a second line chart. Example: Profit - Prior Year.
Comparison 3 (vs Actuals)	Assign a forecast measure for comparison. The chart displays the comparison measure as a dotted line for the forecast period. Example: Profit - Forecast.

1. In the **Line** ribbon, select **Series**. Deselect the variance series to show only the line chart.

2. Select **Deviation** > **Customize** > **Display** and select **Create your own**. Select **Apply**, then select the points to plot the deviation.

3. To customize the series colors, in the chart ribbon (in this example, **Line**), go to **Settings** > **Canvas** > **Category format** and select the colors to apply.

### C08: Area chart IBCS area charts emphasize the magnitude of values while showing trends over time. The shaded area highlights cumulative values, making it easier to compare the overall volume of business metrics such as sales, cash flow, or production. Use this chart when both trend and magnitude are important to the analysis.

Configuration option	Configuration value
Chart type	Stacked area
Category	Assign the dimension that defines the columns along the x-axis. Example: Month.
Actual(s)	Assign one or more measures to analyze. The values determine the position of each data point on the y-axis, and the connected points form the trend line. Example: Profit - Actual.
Legend / Color by / Stacked	Assign a dimension to split the measure into separate series. Each category is plotted as a distinct area chart, and the area charts are stacked to show the cumulative total. Example: Region.

To customize the series colors, in the chart ribbon (in this example, **Stacked area**), go to **Settings** > **Canvas** > **Stack groups** and select the colors to apply.

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