When do I use which graph?
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Line graphs are best for tracking changes over time and comparing changes between groups. Pie charts compare parts of a whole but not changes over time. Bar graphs compare groups or track changes but work best for larger changes, while line graphs are better for smaller changes. Area plot charts emphasize differences between data sets over time. X-Y plots determine relationships between variables by measuring one on the x-axis and the other on the y-axis to identify positive, negative, or no relationships.
When do I use which graph?
- 2. Line Graph Line graphs are used to track changes over short and long periods of time. When smaller changes exist, line graphs are better to use than bar graphs. Line graphs can also be used to compare changes over the same period of time for more than one group.
- 3. Pie Chart Pie charts are best to use when you are trying to compare parts of a whole. They do not show changes over time.
- 4. Bar/Column Graph Bar graphs are used to compare things between different groups or to track changes over time. However, when trying to measure change over time, bar graphs are best when the changes are larger.
- 5. Area Plot Area Plot Charts emphasize differences between several sets of data over time.
- 6. X Y Plot X-Y plots are used to determine relationships between the two different things. The x-axis is used to measure one event (or variable) and the y-axis is used to measure the other. If both variables increase at the same time, they have a positive relationship. If one variable decreases while the other increases, they have a negative relationship. Sometimes the variables don't follow any pattern and have no relationship.