What Is an Area Chart?

An area chart is a line chart with the region between the line and zero filled in, typically at partial opacity so the fill reads as a shape rather than a solid block. It's the same data as a plain line chart, presented with more visual weight.

With multiple data series, a stacked area chart fills and stacks each series on top of the last — the area-chart equivalent of a stacked bar chart, showing individual series and their combined total in one shape.

Making One in framechart

framechart's Line effect has Line, Area, and Stacked Area as Layout options — set Layout to Area (single series) or Stacked Area (point it at a multi-column CSV) in the Inspector, and adjust Area Fill Opacity to taste. Renders live in your DaVinci Resolve timeline, no re-import. Full details on the Animated Line Chart page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an area chart?

An area chart is a line chart with the region between the line and the zero baseline filled in, usually at partial opacity. It reads as more visually substantial than a bare line — common for single-series volume or revenue trends.

What is a stacked area chart?

A stacked area chart fills and stacks multiple series on top of each other, showing both each series' individual contribution and the combined total in one shape — the area-chart equivalent of a stacked bar chart.

How do I make an area chart in framechart?

Point the Line effect at your CSV and set Layout to Area (or Stacked Area for multiple series) in the Inspector — Area Fill Opacity controls how solid the fill looks. Renders live in your DaVinci Resolve timeline.

Related Terms & Pages

Last reviewed: July 2026