Best types of charts and graphs to effectively communicate your data

What’s the difference between charts and graphs?

You may be asking yourself: what’s the difference between a chart and a graph? In the simplest of terms, chart is a generic word for the graphical representation of data, whereas graphs are specifically charts of data plotted along two dimensions — say, for example, an X and Y axis. Charts can represent data as a table or a diagram, or as the previously stated graph. Essentially, all graphs are charts, but not all charts are graphs.

What are the different types of charts?

There is a wide range of charts that can be utilized for a million different uses. In this post we will be addressing the most commonly used types of charts, and we hope to help you pair your data with the chart the best represents it.

Data falls into two categories: qualitative and quantitative. That data can be presented via the most common types of charts — like line, pie, and bar charts — or with less common but equally valuable charts like pictograms, histograms, bubble charts, gauge charts, scatter plots, and more.

Pie chart

Pie charts should be used to demonstrate how a whole concept is broken into percentages. A whole pie can be made up of different slices that represent a variety of variables that are all related to the whole. These charts do not show changes over time like bar charts and line graphs do.

What to consider with chart-making:

Charts can either be an effective tool of communicating data to viewers, or they can be overly complicated reads on how you’re failing to take down data in a helpful way. To make sure your chart or graph is the former and not the latter, consider these tips:

• Do:
  • Utilize the full axis and expand visuals for clear viewing.
  • Make sure the type of chart you’re using is the best type for your data.
  • Use color and animation for an engaging experience.
  • Above all, keep it simple!
• Don’t:
  • Pack your chart with so much information that it’s impossible to tell what the chart is for exactly.
  • Use multiple chart styles for one instance of representation.
  • Use similar colors that can blur together, like red and pink.
  • Sacrifice substance for style. At the end of the day, the real data is the most important factor.