Creating Maps in Excel and Google Sheets

Creating maps in Excel and Google Sheets is a common need for anyone turning spreadsheet data into a report or dashboard. Both tools have built-in map options — but they come with limits, and sometimes a clean custom map is the better choice.

This guide covers your options for maps in Excel and Google Sheets, and how to add a polished dotted map from World in Dots when the defaults aren't enough.

The Built-In Options

Excel offers Filled Map charts (a choropleth style) that shade regions by value
Google Sheets has a Geo chart that colors countries or regions

These are quick, but they share drawbacks:

Limited styling and branding control
Choropleth-only — they shade regions, hiding concentration
Internet-dependent and sometimes inconsistent across regions

Generate vector dotted maps

Create vector dotted maps with custom options and download them as SVG or PNG files

When a Custom Dotted Map Is Better

Reach for a custom map when you want:

Brand-matched colors and a clean, minimal look
Dot-style distribution instead of region shading
A scalable export for print, slides, or web
Full control over which locations are highlighted

How to Add a Custom Map to Your Spreadsheet Report

Step 1: Generate the Map

In World in Dots, choose your region, style the dots, and export as PNG (easy to insert) or SVG (for design tools).

Step 2: Insert Into Your Sheet or Report

In Excel or Google Sheets, use Insert → Image to place the map alongside your data, or drop it into the report or slide deck you're building from the spreadsheet.

Step 3: Annotate

Add labels, callouts, or a small legend so the map ties back to your numbers.

Custom map alongside spreadsheet data

Tips

Keep the dataset in the sheet and the visual as a clean exported map
Use a transparent background so the map sits well in any report layout
Match dot colors to your chart palette for a consistent look

Generate vector dotted maps

Create vector dotted maps with custom options and download them as SVG or PNG files

Final Thoughts

Excel and Google Sheets can make basic maps, but for a clean, branded, dot-style visual, a dedicated generator wins. With World in Dots, you can build the map in seconds and drop it into any spreadsheet report.

Try World in Dots today and upgrade the maps in your next spreadsheet report.

See all posts