Chart

Composition of 38th Parliament

Black cherry tree histogram

Försäljningsstatistik för blanddrycker

ActionnariatLibe2007-fr

US Trade Balance from 1960

Chart is a graphical representation of data, where the data is represented by symbols, such as bars in a bar chart, lines in a line chart, or slices in a pie chart. A chart can represent tabular numeric data, functions, or some kinds of qualitative structures and provides different info.

Types of Charts

Charts are often used to ease understanding of large quantities of data and the relationships between parts of the data. Charts can usually be read more quickly than the raw data. They are used in a wide variety of fields, and can be created by hand (often on graph paper) or by computer using a charting application. Certain types of charts are more useful for presenting a given data set than others. For example, data that presents percentages in different groups (such as "satisfied, not satisfied, unsure") are often displayed in a Pie chart, but more complex data is usually better presented in a bar chart or line chart.

Bar Chart

A bar chart or bar graph is a chart or graph that presents categorical data with rectangular bars with heights or lengths proportional to the values that they represent. The bars can be plotted vertically or horizontally.

Pie Chart

A pie chart is a circular statistical graphic, which is divided into slices to illustrate numerical proportion. In a pie chart, the arc length of each slice (and consequently its central angle and area), is proportional to the quantity it represents.

Line Chart

A line chart or line graph is a type of chart which displays information as a series of data points called 'markers' connected by straight line segments. It is a basic type of chart common in many fields.

Other Types

Other types of charts include:

• Scatter plot - uses Cartesian coordinates to display values for typically two variables for a set of data.
• Histogram - an accurate representation of the distribution of numerical data.
• Area chart - similar to a line chart, but the area between the line and the axis is filled in with color or shading.
• Gantt chart - a type of bar chart that illustrates a project schedule.

Uses of Charts

Charts are used in various settings, from business and finance to engineering and healthcare. In business, charts are often used to analyze trends, forecast future performance, and compare the performance of different entities. In healthcare, charts can illustrate patient statistics, disease incidence, and the effectiveness of treatments.

Creating Charts

Creating charts involves selecting the correct type of chart for the data, determining the data range, and choosing a design that effectively communicates the message. Software applications like Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and specialized charting software provide tools for creating a wide variety of charts.

Conclusion

Charts are a vital tool in data analysis and presentation, helping to visualize complex data in a comprehensible and efficient manner. By selecting the appropriate chart type and design, one can effectively communicate insights and trends in the data.