I need to overlay data on a geographical map how do I do that?

In Excel, geographic data such as city, state, and country can be plotted directly on a map.

To overlay the data on a map chart:

1. Arrange the data in columns (for example: City, State, Country, and any numeric value to visualize).
2. Select the entire data range.
3. On the Insert tab, select Charts > Maps > Filled Map.
4. If the preview looks correct, select OK. Excel will create a filled map using the geographic fields.

To use geography data types for easier mapping:

1. Enter a list of geographic values (country, state, county, city, postal code, etc.) in a column.
2. Select that list and go to the Data tab > Data Types > Geography.
3. Excel converts the entries to geography data types and exposes related fields (such as population, tax revenue, etc.).
4. Add the field to visualize (for example, a numeric property from Add Column).
5. With the range selected, go to Insert > Charts > Maps > Filled Map to create the map.

To overlay more detailed data in 3D Maps (for time-based or layered visualizations):

1. Ensure the data includes geographic columns such as City, State/Province, Country/Region, or Latitude/Longitude.
2. In Excel, select any cell in the data and open 3D Maps (also known as Power Map in Excel 2013).
3. In the Location Add Field list, assign the appropriate columns to geography levels (City, State/Province, Country/Region, etc.).
4. Verify the fields and levels in the Geography section, then select Next.
5. 3D Maps uses Bing to geocode and plot the data on a globe. Use the Layer Pane to change which geography fields are shown (for example, switch between Street, City, or State views).

If locations are ambiguous (for example, multiple cities with the same name), add more geographic detail such as Zip Code or Country/Region to improve accuracy.

References:

• Geocode your 3D Maps data
• Geocode your Power Map data
• Maps in Power View
• Create a Map chart in Excel