Chart

A chart uses marks such as bars, lines, or points to show data. It helps you compare values, follow changes, or see how values are spread. A table is often better when readers need to look up exact numbers.

Orders by monthSample data

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Choose a chart for the question

Start with what you want to know. The same data can support several charts, but each chart makes a different comparison easy.

• Compare categories: use a bar chart or column chart.
• Follow change over time: use a line chart. In the example, you can see the March drop without reading every value.
• See a distribution: use a histogram for the shape or a box plot for a compact summary.
• Compare two measurements: use a scatter plot, with one point per observation.
• Show parts of a total: use a pie chart for a few categories or a treemap for a hierarchy.

Give the numbers context

Name the measure, unit, and time period. “Orders by month” tells readers more than “Performance.” State whether values are counts, percentages, averages, or running totals.

Include the source and any filters that change the result. A chart of completed orders should not be labeled as all orders. Keep missing values distinct from zero.

Make the chart readable

Use labels and a short explanation as well as color. Keep scales consistent when charts are compared. Remove decoration that makes values harder to read, such as 3D effects or unnecessary curves.

Provide the underlying values in an accessible table. Tooltips help readers inspect a chart, but the main finding should also be available without a mouse.