A chart in Google Slides can be a linked object or an unlinked copy. Source changes do not establish that the presentation already contains the updated result.
Identify the object and source
Select the chart in Slides and inspect its link options. Use Open source when available to confirm the correct spreadsheet and chart. A similarly named workbook may contain a different version.
If the chart was imported without Link to spreadsheet, it is an unlinked copy. A pasted image also does not become a live chart merely because it came from Sheets.
Update a linked chart
Use the chart’s Update control when available. For several objects, inspect Tools > Linked objects and use the appropriate individual update or Update all operation.
If no update control appears, the object may be unlinked or already current. Do not assume removing and reinserting it is necessary until its type and source have been checked.
Verify content and exposure
Compare a known changed value and the chart’s labels in both files. Updating from the source can override object edits made in the destination, so preserve any intentional presentation-specific changes before a broad update.
Google warns that people with access to the presentation can view linked objects even without access to the original source file. Review the chart’s content for that audience. Updating the chart does not independently authorize wider disclosure. Check the exported presentation or PDF separately, since a static output records the state at export time rather than promising future refresh. Keep source identity and report date explicit for later maintainers.
References
Reviewed against the linked official product guidance on November 3, 2026. Features, limits, screen labels, and access can vary by account, platform, region, and organization policy.