Here are some steps to troubleshoot common chart formatting and display issues in Excel:

1. Check Data Source and Chart Type:

* Ensure your chart reflects the intended data range. Select the chart and look at the formula bar (fx) to see the cell references used.
* Verify you've chosen the most suitable chart type for your data. Consider bar charts for comparisons, line charts for trends, and pie charts for proportions.

2. Review Chart Elements:

* Axis Labels: Make sure axis labels (X and Y) are clear and formatted appropriately (font size, alignment). Right-click the axis and choose "Format Axis" for customization options.
* Data Labels: Data labels display specific values within the chart. You can control their visibility, formatting, and position. Right-click a data point and choose "Format Data Labels" for adjustments.
* Legend: The legend identifies data series within the chart. Ensure it's positioned clearly and formatted for readability. Click the legend to select it, then right-click and choose "Format Legend" for customization.
* Gridlines: Gridlines can help improve readability, but too many can clutter the chart. Right-click on the chart area and choose "Add Chart Element" > "Gridlines" to add or remove them.

3. Format Chart Elements:

* Colors: Experiment with color schemes to enhance visual clarity. Click the chart area and go to the "Chart Design" tab on the ribbon. Explore different color themes or customize individual elements by right-clicking them.
* Font Size and Style: Ensure font sizes are large enough for easy reading, especially for axis labels and data labels. Right-click the element and choose "Format Text" for adjustments.
* Chart Title: Add a clear and concise title to your chart using the "Chart Title" placeholder at the top of the chart area. Double-click the title to edit its text and formatting.

4. Refine Chart Layout and Size:

* Resize the Chart: Drag the corners of the chart to adjust its size while maintaining proper aspect ratio.
* Position the Chart: Right-click the chart and choose "Move Chart" or "Change Chart Type" > "As Object in Worksheet" to place it anywhere on the sheet.

5. Address Display Issues:

* Zoom: If the chart appears blurry or zoomed in too close, use the zoom controls in the bottom right corner of the Excel window to adjust the view.
* Print Preview: Before printing, check your chart's appearance in print preview to identify any layout or formatting issues that might not be obvious on screen.

6. Consider Advanced Troubleshooting:

* Conditional Formatting: If formatting seems erratic, check if conditional formatting rules are applied to the chart elements. You can access them through the "Chart Design" tab.
* Chart Type Limitations: Some formatting options might be limited depending on the chosen chart type. Explore alternative chart types if you encounter formatting restrictions.

By systematically checking these areas, you should be able to resolve most common formatting and display issues with your charts in Excel. If you're still facing problems, searching online for specific error messages or consulting Excel help resources might be necessary.