# How to Create a Funnel Chart

### How to create a Funnel Chart in the Advanced Chart Builder

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#### Start with the right data

Ensure your dataset includes:

* **One categorical variable** representing sequential stages or levels
* **One numeric value** per stage or level (e.g., number of students, applicants, completions)
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#### Open the Advanced Chart Builder

Open the [Advanced Chart Builder](https://support.doowii.io/top-resources/advanced-charts-and-visualizations-builder/getting-started-with-the-advanced-chart-builder) from a thread or Pin to launch the builder.
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#### Open the Chart tab

Select the type of Funnel Chart you need:

* **Funnel Chart**: Used to display how a group or category contributes to a total metric over time by showing decreasing values across stages in a linear process.
* **Cone Funnel**: Used to display how a group or category contributes to a total metric over time, with the same logic as a funnel chart but using a cone shape for visual impact.
* **Pyramid**: Used to display how a group or category contributes to a total metric over time or across levels, typically arranged from broadest (bottom) to narrowest (top).

Review the live preview of your chart. 
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#### Go to the Setup tab

* Confirm your Category from the dropdown (e.g., department, program name, grade level)
* Add one or more Series (e.g., enrollment count, average GPA)
* Choose the appropriate aggregation (e.g., Sum, Average)
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#### Apply Data Filters

[Filter your data](https://support.doowii.io/top-resources/create-a-chart-with-the-advanced-chart-builder#how-to-apply-filters) to reduce clutter, increase readability, and focus the chart on the story. 
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#### Customize the Chart (Optional)

[Use the Customize tab](https://support.doowii.io/top-resources/advanced-charts-and-visualizations-builder/customize-your-chart) to adjust the look of your chart:

* Add axis titles and chart labels
* Adjust colors, axis lines, labels, and tooltips
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#### Save the Chart

Click Save when you’re ready to [apply your changes](https://support.doowii.io/top-resources/advanced-charts-and-visualizations-builder/saving-or-canceling-your-chart-edits), or Cancel to discard the changes. 
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### Funnel Chart Use Cases

Need some inspiration? Consider these examples where a Funnel Chart may work well. 

* Show student enrollment progress from inquiry to enrollment.
* Analyze student progression through academic interventions: at-risk → referred → tutored → passed.
* Show levels of achievement or readiness: below basic → basic → proficient → advanced.
* Visualize the retention pipeline: enrolled freshmen → returning sophomores → graduating seniors.

### Funnel Chart Tips and Best Practices

* Use to highlight drop-offs between stages, such as for showing attrition or conversion over time or process.
* Keep stages clearly labeled and in logical order.
* Avoid using too many levels; 3-7 is generally ideal for clarity.
* Cone/pyramid are more stylistic alternatives.
* Ensure values decrease (or increase) appropriately from base to top (or vice versa); otherwise, use a bar chart.