Choosing a Graph Format
Stephen M. Kosslyn · Oxford University Press eBooks · 2006
The first step in making good graphs is to choose which graph format to use. First and foremost, decide whether to use a graph or not, or just use simple tables or discursive presentations. Generally, a graph is used to illustrate relative amounts or deal with relationships. The subject must be specified, and in particular, must be mentioned in the title. The graph should have a specific purpose, providing the answers to certain questions that the readers need to know. After taking into consideration the aforementioned, then it is your task to choose the right graph format. Graph formats include graphs for percentage and proportion data (pie graphs and divided-bar graphs), graphs for quantitative and rank-order data (visual tables, line and bar graphs, side-by-side graphs, step graphs, and scatterplots), and graphs for cumulative totals (stacked bars, layer graphs, and multiple panels).