Choosing and Reading Data Displays

Choosing and Reading Data Displays

Choose a display based on the question. Bar graphs compare categories, line graphs show change over time, pie charts show parts of a whole and tables keep exact values. A good display has a title, labels, a sensible scale and no misleading gaps. In an exam answer, quote numbers from the display before making a conclusion.

Worked example

Daily temperature across a week is ordered by time, so a line graph is suitable. Favourite sports are categories, so a bar graph is better for comparing them.

Exam method

1. Identify the data type and question. 2. Choose the display that shows the relationship clearly. 3. Label it fully and check that the scale matches the data.