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Generate charts with AI


Create charts instantly by describing what you need or using your own data. AI helps you turn ideas or data into clear, customisable charts. You can:

  • Generate charts from a simple prompt - no data needed
  • Create charts from your own data - CSV files or connected sources

Always verify and update the data with your own information before sharing.

Generate charts with AI

  1. Open or create a design.
  2. In the editor, select the
    Elements tab from the left sidebar.
  3. In the search bar, type a description of the chart you want to create (e.g., "Create a bar chart showing quarterly revenue").
  4. Select the dropdown next to
    Generate images, then select
    Generate a chart.
  5. Wait for the AI to generate your chart preview.
  6. Select the generated chart to add it to your design.
  7. Edit the chart data and styling as needed using the chart editing panel.

For better results:

  • Describe your topic or goal clearly, such as "Show performance by channel" or "Forecast revenue for next quarter."
  • Include specific data in your prompt if you have it, such as "Revenue peaked at 20 million in quarter 4."
  • Mention the chart type you prefer, such as bar chart, line chart, or pie chart.
  • Include colour instructions in your prompt, such as “use warm tones”, “blue and green”. The generated chart aims to follow your colour instructions.

Generate charts from your data with AI

You can turn your data into visual charts in Canva by uploading a CSV file or importing data from supported sources. AI helps structure your data and generate charts quickly, so you can focus on customising your design.

This feature is available on desktop and mobile. It’s not available to users in China.

Supported data sources

You can create AI-generated charts using:

Via upload

  • CSV file uploads.

Via import

  • HubSpot, Google Analytics, World Bank, Statista, Canva Sheets.

Create a chart from your data

  1. Open or create a design.
  2. Go to
    Elements.
  3. Select
    (plus icon).
    • Upload - Select your CSV file or any supported data, then select Open.
    • Import - Select any supported data source, then select Add to Canva AI.
  4. In the search bar, enter a description of the chart you want (for example, “Compare sales by month”).
  5. Select the dropdown, then select
    Generate a chart.
  6. Wait for the chart preview to load.
  7. Select the generated chart to add it to your design.
  8. Edit your chart using the available chart settings.

Troubleshoot chart creation issues

If your chart does not generate or shows incorrect data, try the following:

  • If your file does not upload, check that it is in CSV format. Excel files are not supported.
  • If your chart is incorrect, review your column headers and ensure your data is aligned properly.
  • If the chart does not generate, check your CSV formatting and try uploading again.
  • If you see connection errors when importing data, reconnect your account.

If the feature is not visible, it may still be rolling out to your account.

Customize your AI-generated charts

You can customize your chart after adding it to your design.

  1. Select the chart on your design.
  2. Use the editor toolbar to change colors, fonts, and styles.
  3. Select Edit to update the data values with your own information.

You can adjust your chart’s appearance, including its colours, fonts, and styling. If you include colour instructions in your prompt, the generated chart aims to follow them. You can still make changes after generating using the editor toolbar.

FAQs

I couldn’t generate AI charts

If your chart doesn't generate, check your internet connection and try again. If you see an error message about safety policies, try rephrasing your prompt. AI cannot generate some chart types, such as infographic charts and less common chart types.

Is the data from AI charts accurate?

AI-generated charts use sample data created to match your description. The data may not always be accurate. You can replace the sample data with your own verified information before sharing or presenting.

What types of charts can I generate?

You can generate common chart types like bar charts, line charts, pie charts, and area charts. AI cannot generate infographic charts and some less common chart types.

How do I use my own data with AI-generated charts?

You can create charts from your data in Canva by uploading a CSV file.

Can I upload Excel files?

No, only CSV files are supported.

Does my data update automatically?

No, data does not sync automatically. You need to refresh or re-upload your data.

Can I use multiple datasets in one chart?

No, each chart supports one dataset only.

Can I choose colours when generating a chart with AI?

Yes. Include colour instructions in your prompt, such as “use warm tones”, “blue and green”. The generated chart aims to follow your colour instructions, and you can still edit colours after generating.

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