How to create dynamically linked tables in Numbers or Keynote on macOS?

Could somebody please explain to how to configure dynamically linked tables in Numbers/Keynote on macOS?


For those unfamiliar with the concept, updating the table in either Numbers or Keynote would reflect the updates in the other app automatically. This is a core feature I rely on heavily in MIcrosoft Office (see: linked charts in Excel/PowerPoint).


Thanks in advance!

MacBook Pro 16″

Posted on Oct 14, 2025 4:01 PM

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4 replies

Oct 14, 2025 5:52 PM in response to SGIII

Thanks for the tip! To clarify, are we certain that this feature isn't already built into these apps?


I just came across the Numbers '09 User Guide, which states:


You can copy a chart and paste it into a Keynote presentation or a Pages document. After it’s pasted, the chart is linked to the Numbers version. If the Numbers table data depicted in the chart changes, you can refresh the chart in Keynote or Pages.


See the attached screenshot for context.


Oct 14, 2025 7:03 PM in response to J_dot_C

J_dot_C wrote:

Thanks for the tip! To clarify, are we certain that this feature isn't already built into these apps?

I just came across the Numbers '09 User Guide, which states:


That user guide refers to ancient software, over 15 years old!


The modern Numbers app shares the name but is completely different.


It dropped many features used in the old desktop environment emphasizing printed output. But it gained many features used in modern multi-device, multi-platform environments where printing is less important.


I would guess making specific integration of Numbers and Keynote work across multiple platforms would be hard to do.


SG



How to create dynamically linked tables in Numbers or Keynote on macOS?

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