How to fix slope at start of the stacked area chart

[kswonder]

Dear all,

I have a combined chart from Y2006 to Y2013. I'm showing two lines from 2006 to 2010, and extending to 2013 with two stacked areas in order to highlight the gap between the two lines post 2010. I will of course fill the lower area with no color. However, I get a SLOPE, instead of a clean cliff, at the beginning the stacked areas. I've tried manually uncheck and check the "Gap" option, as described from other sources, but it doesn't seem to do anything. Appreciate any advice and suggestion. Spreadsheet attached. Thank you very much.

[protonLeah]

Maybe you are thinking of columns vs. areas?

[kswonder]

Thanks protonLeah. I think stacked area would look better for my purpose.

[Andy Pope]

If you make the category axis dates, along with the data, you can add 2 data points for 2011 and get rid of slope,

[kswonder]

Thanks Pope. Excellent point. Is there a way for me to connect the lines and areas without a gap between?

[Andy Pope]

In order to close the gap between 2010 and 2011 you would need to provide data for 1 of those periods.

Should the lines go to 2011 or should the shaded area begin in 2010?

[kswonder]

Maybe 2010.

[Andy Pope]

so you would need to alter the data slightly.

[kswonder]

Thank you so much. Works like charm!