Diagrammatic and

UNIT 7 DIAGRAMMATIC AND GRAPHIC Graphic Presentation

PRESENTATION
STRUCTURE
7.0 Objectives
7.1 Introduction
7.2 Importance of Visual Presentation of Data
7.3 Diagrammatic Presentation
7.3.1 Rules for Preparing Diagrams
7.4 Types of Diagrams
7.5 One Dimensional Bar Diagrams
7.5.1 Simple Bar Diagram
7.5.2 Multiple Bar Diagram
7.5.3 Sub-divided Bar Diagram
7.6 Pie Diagram
7.7 Structure Diagrams
7.7.1 Organisational Charts
7.7.2 Flow Charts
7.8 Graphic Presentation
7.9 Graphs of Time Series
7.9.1 Graphs of One Dependent Variable
7.9.2 Graphs of More Than One Dependent Variable
7.10 Graphs of Frequency Distribution
7.10.1 Histograms and Frequency Polygon
7.10.2 Cumulative Frequency Curves
7.11 Let Us Sum Up
7.12 Key Words
7.13 Answers to Self Assessment Exercises
7.14 Terminal Questions/Exercises
7.15 Further Reading

7.0 OBJECTIVES
After studying this Unit, you should be able to:

l explain the need and significance of visual presentation (diagrams and

graphs) of the data in research work,
l describe various types of diagrams and illustrate how to present the data
through an appropriate diagram,
l describe the principle of preparing a graph,
l present frequency distribution in the form of historigrams, histograms,
frequency polygon and ogives to make decisions, and
l list out and distinguish between the major forms of diagrams and graphs.

7.1 INTRODUCTION
In the previous Unit 6, you have studied the importance and techniques of
editing, coding, classification and tabulation that help to arrange the mass of
data (collected data) in a logical and precise manner. Tabulation is one of the
techniques for presentation of collected data which makes it easier to establish
trend, pattern, comparison etc. However, you might have noticed, it is a difficult 2 7
Processing and Presentation and cumbersome task for a researcher to interpret a table having a large mass
of Data of numerical information. Sometimes it may fail to convey the message
meaningfully to the readers for whom it is meant. To overcome this
inconvenience, diagrammatic and graphic presentation of data has been invented
to supplement and explain the tables. Practically every day we can find the
presentation of cricket score, stock market index, cost of living index etc., in
news papers, television, magazines, reports etc. in the form of diagrams and
graphs. This kind of presentation is also termed as 'visual presentation' or
‘charting’.

In this unit, you will learn about the importance of visual presentation of
research data and some of the reasons why diagrammatic and graphic
presentation of data is so widely used. You will also study the different kinds of
diagrams and graphs, which are more popularly used for presenting the data in
research work. Also its principles on how to present the frequency distribution
in the form of diagrams and graphs. As you are already familiar with graphs
and diagrams, we will proceed with further discussions.

7.2 IMPORTANCE OF VISUAL PRESENTATION OF

DATA
Visual presentation of statistical data has become more popular and is often
used by the researcher and the statistician in analysis. Visual presentation of
data means presentation of Statistical data in the form of diagrams and graphs.
In these days, as we know, every research work is supported with visual
presentation because of the following reasons.

1) They relieve the dullness of the numerical data: Any list of figures
becomes less comprehensible and difficult to draw conclusions from as its
length increases. Scanning of the figures from tables causes undue strain on the
mind. The data when presented in the form of diagrams and graphs, gives a
birds eye-view of the entire data and creates interest and leaves an impression
on the mind of readers for a long period.

2) They make comparison easy: This is one of the prime objectives of visual
presentation of data. Diagrams and graphs make quick comparison between two
or more sets of data simpler, and the direction of curves bring out hidden facts
and associations of the statistical data.

3) They save time and effort: The characteristics of statistical data, through
tables, can be grasped only after a great strain on the mind. Diagrams and
graphs reduce the strain and save a lot of time in understanding the basic
characteristics of the data.

4) They facilitate the location of various statistical measures and

establish trends: Graph makes it possible to locate several measures of
central tendency such as Median, Quartiles, Mode etc. They help in
establishing trends of the past performance and are useful in interpolation or
extrapolation, line of best fit, establishing correlation etc. Thus, it helps in
forecasting.

5) They have universal applicability: It is a universal practice to present the

numerical data in the form of diagrams and graphs. In these days, it is an
extensively used technique in the field of economics, business, education, health,
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agriculture etc.
6) They have become an integral part of research: In fact, now a days it Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation
is difficult to find any research work without visual support. The reason is that
this is the most convincing and appealing way of presenting the data. You can
find diagrammatic and graphic presentation of data in journals, magazines,
television, reports, advertisements etc. After having understood about the
importance of visual presentation, we shall move on to discuss about the
Diagrams and graphs which are more frequently used in the area of business
research.

7.3 DIAGRAMMATIC PRESENTATION

As you know, diagrammatic presentation is one of the techniques of visual
presentation of statistical data. It is a fact that diagrams do not add new
meaning to the statistical facts but they reveal the facts of the data more
quickly and clearly. Because, examining the figures from tables becomes
laborious and uninteresting to the eye and also confusing. Here, it is appropriate
to state the words of M. J. Moroney, “cold figures are uninspiring to most
people. Diagrams help us to see the pattern and shape of any complex
situation.” Thus, the data presented through diagrams are the best way of
appealing to the mind visually. Hence, diagrams are widely used in practice to
display the structure of the data in research work.

7.3.1 Rules for Preparing Diagrams

As we have discussed earlier, the prime objective of diagrammatic presentation

of data is to highlight their basic hidden facts and relationships. To ensure that
the presentation of numerical data is more attractive and effective, therefore, it
is essential to keep the following general rules in mind while adapting diagrams
in research work. Now, let us discuss them one by one.

1) You must have noted that the diagrams must be geometrically accurate.
Therefore, they should be drawn on the graphic axis i.e., ‘X’ axis (horizontal
line) and ‘Y’ axis (vertical line). However, the diagrams are generally drawn on
a plain paper after considering the scale.
2) While taking the scale on ‘X’ axis and ‘Y’ axis, you must ensure that the scale
showing the values should be in multiples of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, etc.
3) The scale should be clearly set up, e.g., millions of tons, persons in Lakhs, value
in thousands etc. On ‘Y’ axis the scale starts from zero, as the vertical scale is
not broken.
4) Every diagram must have a concise and self explanatory title, which may be
written at the top or bottom of the diagram.
5) In order to draw the readers' attention, diagrams must be attractive and well
propotioned.
6) Different colours or shades should be used to exhibit various components of
diagrams and also an index must be provided for identification.
7) It is essential to choose a suitable type of diagram. The selection will depend
upon the number of variables, minimum and maximum values, objects of
presentation.

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Processing and Presentation Self Assessment Exercise A
of Data
List out the importance of visual presentation of statistical data.

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7.4 TYPES OF DIAGRAMS

Generally, diagrams are classified on the basis of their length, width and shape.
There are various types of diagrams namely, one dimensional diagrams, two
dimensional diagrams, three dimensional diagrams, charts, pictograms, cartograms
etc. However, in this unit, we will discuss the important types of diagrams,
which are more frequently used in social science research in general,
particularly in business research. Therefore, we have restricted ourselves to
study only one dimensional bar diagrams, pie diagrams, and structure diagrams.

7.5 ONE DIMENSIONAL BAR DIAGRAMS

Bar refers to a thick line. Under this type of construction only one dimension
i.e., length is taken into account for the purpose of comparison and observance
of fluctuations in growth. The length of each bar is proportionate to the
magnitude of the data. The width is not related to the magnitude of the data.
Generally the width is given for the purpose of visual effect and attractiveness.
The width of each bar and the gap between one bar to another bar must be
uniform. Mention the respective figures at the top of every bar, particularly
when the scale is too narrow, so that the reader knows the figures without
consulting the scale of the diagram.

A large number of one dimensional diagrams are available for presenting data.
Such as line diagram, simple bar diagram, multiple bar diagram, sub-divided bar
diagram, percentage bar diagram, deviation bar diagram etc. We shall, however,
study only the simple bar diagram, multiple bar diagram, and sub-divided bar
diagram. Let us study these three kinds of diagrams with the support of
relevant illustrations.

7.5.1 Simple Bar Diagram

In a Simple bar diagram, the data related to one variable is depicted. Such as,
profits, investments, exports, sales, production etc.

This type of diagram may be drawn either vertically or horizontally. Both

positive and negative values can be presented. In such a case, if bars are
constructed vertically, the positive values are taken on the upper side of
horizontal axis while the negative values are taken on its lower side. On the
other hand if the bars are constructed horizontally, the positive values are taken
on the right hand side of the vertical axis and the negative values are
considered on its left side. These type of construction of bars are also called
deviation bar diagram. The simple bar diagram is very easy to prepare and to
understand the level of fluctuations from one situation to another. It should be
kept in mind that, only length is taken into account and not width. Width should
be uniform for all bars and the gap between each bar is normally identical. Let
us consider the following illustrations and learn how to present the given data in
3 0 the form of simple bar diagrams vertically and horizontally.
Illustration-1 Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation
Prepare a Simple Bar Diagram from the Following Data Relating to Tea Exports.

Year 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02

Exports
(In Million kgs.) 167 209 410 316 192 215 160

Solution: The quantity of tea exported is given in million kgs. for different
years. A simple bar diagram will be constructed with 7 bars corresponding to
the 7 years. Now study the following vertical construction of bar diagram by
referring the guide lines for construction of simple bars, as explained in section
7.5.1.

450 410
400
Tea Export (in million kgs.)

350 316
300
250 215
209
192
200 167 160
150
100
50
0
1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02
Years
Figure 7.1: Simple Bar Diagram Showing the Tea Exports in Different Years.

Illustration-2

The following data relates to the Profit and Loss of different industries in 1999-
2002. Present the data through simple bar diagram.

Industry : Cement Oil Textile Sugar Garments

Profit/Loss 48 25 –12 14 –24
(Rs. In lakhs)

Solution : The given data represents positive and negative values i.e., profit
and loss. Let us draw the bars horizontally. Observe fig: 7.2 carefully and try
to understand the construction of simple bars horizontally.

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Processing and Presentation
of Data
–24
Garments

Sugar 14

Industries
–12 Textiles

Oil 25

Cement 48

-30 -20 -10 0 10 20 30 40 50

Profit/Loss (Rs. In lakh)
Figure 7.2: Simple Bar Diagram Showing the Profit and Loss of Different Industries
During 1999-02

Self Assessment Exercise B

Represent the following data related to the surplus/deficit of Balance of Trade

over a period, by simple bar diagram.

Years 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

Surplus (+)/deficit (–)
(In million $) + 34 + 14 – 12 –4 +6 – 12 – 20

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7.5.2 Multiple Bar Diagram

In this type of diagram, two or more than two bars are constructed side by
side horizontally for a period or related phenomenon. This type of diagram is
also called Compound Bar or Cluster Bar Diagram. The technique of preparing
such a diagram is the same as that of simple bar diagram. This diagram, on
the one hand, facilitates comparison of the values of different variables in a set
and on the other, it facilitates the comparison of the values of the same variable
over a period of time or phenomenon. To facilitate easy comparison, the
3 2 different bars of a set may be coloured or shaded differently to distinguish
between them. But the Colour or shade for the bars representing the same Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation
variable in different sets should be the same.

Let us consider the following illustration and learn the method of presentation
of the data in the form of a multiple bar diagram.

Illustration-3

Depict the following data in a multiple bar diagram.

Foreign Investment – Industry Wise Inflows
(Rs. in crores)
Years
Industry
1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000
Chemical 956 1580 523
Engineering 2155 1800 1423
Services 1194 1550 506
Food 418 78 525

Solution : The data relates to the Foreign Investment inflow of four

industries during 1997-2000 (three years). Therefore, three sets of bars should
be drawn, each set represents one year. In each set there should be four bars
representing four sectors (Chemical, Engineering, Services and Food). Let us
draw the multiple bars with the help of the procedure explained in subsection
7.5.2. Study the diagram carefully and learn how this type of diagram is drawn.

Chemical Engineering Services Food

2500

2155
Foregin Investment- Industrywise Inflow

2000
1800

1580 1550
1500 1423
(Rs. In crores)

1194

1000 956

523 506 525

500 418

78
0
1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000

Years

Figure 7.3: Multiple Bar Diagram Showing the Inflow of Foreign Investment in Selected
Sectors During 1997-2000

3 3
Processing and Presentation Self Assessment Exercise C
of Data

The following table relates the Indian Textile Exports to different countries

Countries Year
1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000
USA 746.13 759.36 882.41
Germany 366.01 300.46 338.88
UK 403.07 337.94 341.42
Italy 241.64 233.14 215.48
Korea (Republic) 127.00 88.30 185.13

i) Represent the data by Multiple bar diagram.

ii) Which aspects of the distribution does this diagram emphasize?
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7.5.3 Sub-divided Bar Diagram

In this diagram one bar is constructed for the total value of the different
components of the same variable. Further it is sub-divided in proportion to the
values of various components of that variable. This diagram shows the total of
the variables as well as the total of its various components in a single bar.
Hence, it is clear that the sub-divided bar serves the same purpose as multiple
bars. The only difference is that, in case of the multiple bar each component of
a variable is shown side by side horizontally, where as in construction of sub-
divided bar diagram each component of a variable is shown one upon the other.
It is also called a component bar diagram. This method is suitable if the total
values of the variables are small, otherwise the scale becomes very narrow to
depict the data. To study the relative changes, all components may be
converted into percentages and drawn as sub-divided bars. Such a bar
construction is called a sub-divided percentage bar. The limitation is that all
the parts do not have a common base to enable us to compare accurately the
various components of a set.

Let us take up an illustration to understand presenting of the data in the form

of sub-divided bar diagram.

Illustration-4
The following data relates to India's exports of electronic goods to different
3 4 countries during 1994-98. Represent the data by sub-divided bar diagram.
 (Rs. in Crores) Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation
Country Total
Years USA Hong Malaysia Singapore Germany
Kong
1994-95 210 86 56 275 91 718
1995-96 378 105 159 467 118 1227
1996-97 789 189 221 349 93 1641
1997-98 880 248 175 327 90 1720
1998-99 900 220 200 350 130 1800

Solution : For construction of sub-divided bar diagram, first of all, we must

obtain the total export value of the five countries in each year. However, in the
above illustration of different countries, total exports in each year are given.
Construct sub-divided bar diagram. Now study figure 7.4 carefully and
understand the construction.

USA Hongkong Malaysia Singapore Germany

1800
130
90
1600 93
Indian's Export of Electronics Goods (Rs. in crores)

350
327
1400 349

175 200
1200 118
221
1000 248 220

467 189
800
91
600 159
275
105 880 900
400 789
56
86
200 378
210

0
1994-95 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99
Years

Figure 7.4: Sub-divided Bar Diagram Showing the India's Exports of Electronic Goods to
Different Countries During 1994-99.

3 5
Processing and Presentation Self Assessment Exercise D
of Data

Draw sub-divided bar diagram for the following table. Do you agree that
this diagram is more effective for comparison of figures rather than the
Multiple bar diagram? Justify your opinion.

Item-wise Exports of Leather Products from India (1997-2000)

$ Million
Year
Items 1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000
Finished leather 296.19 268.38 239.00
Leather footwear 240.77 241.00 299.77
Leather goods 387.79 411.00 385.25
Leather garments 425.72 381.94 318.94
Others 26.00 33.00 36.00
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7.6 PIE DIAGRAM

Pie diagrams are generally used to show per cent breakdowns. For instance,
we can show how the budget is allocated under different heads. A pie diagram
is a sub-divided circle. The area of different sub-divisions in pie diagrams are in
the proportion of the data to be represented. While making comparision, pie
diagrams should be used on a percentage basis and not on an absolute basis.

In constructing a pie diagram the first step is to convert the various values of
components of the variable into percentages and then the percentages
transposed into corresponding degrees. The total percentage of the various
components i.e., 100 is taken as 360° (degrees around the centre of a circle)
and the degree of various components are calculated in proportion to the
percentage values of different components. It is expressed as:
360 o
× component ' s percentage
100

It should be noted that in case the data comprises of more than one variable, to
show the two dimensional effect for making comparison among the variables,
we have to obtain the square root of the total of each variable. These square
3 6
roots would represent the radius of the circles and then they will be sub- Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation
divided. A pie diagram helps us in emphasizing the area and in ascertaining the
relationship between the various components as well as among the variables.
However, compared to a bar diagram, a pie diagram is less effective for
accurate interpretation when the components are in large numbers. Let us draw
the pie diagram with the help of the data contained in the following table.

Illustration 5

A researcher made an enquiry about the sources of price information tapped

from 550 sample farmers in a regulated agricultural market as given below.
Present the data in the form of pie diagram and comment.

Source of Price Information No. of farmers

Radio 50
Daily papers 60
Local traders 100
Co-framers 310
Personal visits 20
Market office 10

Solution : The number of farmers, who have expressed their sources of

collecting information for price of agricultural products have to be converted
into the corresponding percentages and then after that into degrees as shown
below. Draw the circle and then measure points on the circumference
representing the degrees of each source with the help of protractor. Let us first
calculate the corresponding percentages and then convert into degrees in order
to draw an appropriate pie chart.

Source of No. of Percentage of Degree of

Price Information farmers No. of farmers angle
Radio 50 9.1 33°
Daily wages 60 10.9 39°
Local traders 100 18.2 66°
Co-farmers 310 56.4 203°
Personal visits 20 3.6 13°
Market office 10 1.8 6°
Total 550 100.0 360°

After calculating the degrees of various components, depict them in a circle as

shown in Figure 7.5.

3 7
Processing and Presentation 1.8%
of Data
3.6%
9.1%

10.9%

18.2%
56.4%

Radio Daily wages Local traders Co-farmers Personal visits M arket office

Figure 7.5: Sources of Price Information of Regulated Agricultural Market Tapped

by the Farmers.
The pie diagram reveals that the majority of farmers seek price information
from co-farmers, which represents about 56.4% among the sample farmers
(550). Next to the source of co-farmers, they collect the information through
local traders i.e., 18.2%. The study also reveals that the market office plays a
very insignificant role which represents about 1.8% only.

Self Assessment Exercise E

Construct a pie diagram to describe the following data :

Reasons for Buying Face Cream

Reasons No. of Respondents
Seen it advertised 280
Seen it on the counter 160
Reasonably priced 100
Scent appealed 70
Beneficial to skin 180
Recommendation 210
Total Respondents 1000

What features of this distribution does your pie diagram mainly illustrate?

3 8
 Diagrammatic and
7.7 STRUCTURE DIAGRAMS Graphic Presentation

There are several important diagram formats that are used to display the
structural information (qualitative) in the form of charts. The format depends
upon the nature of information. Under these type of diagrams we will discuss
two different diagrams, i.e., (1) Organisational Charts and (2) Flow Charts.

7.7.1 Organisational Charts

These types of charts are most commonly used to represent the internal
structure of organisations. There is no standard format for these kind of
diagrams as the design of the diagram depends on the nature of the
organization. A special format is used in the following illustration which relates
to the organisational structure of the IGNOU. Study the Fig. 7.6 and try to
understand the preparation of this kind of diagram relating to other
organisations.

VISITOR

BOARD OF MANAGEMENT

Planning Board Academic Council Distance Education Finance Committee

Council

Vice Chancellor

Pro-Vice Chancellors

Schools Divisions Centres

Continuing Academic Centre for

Education Administration
Education Co-ordination Extension Education

Computer & Engineering & Computer Campus Const.

Information Science Technology & Maintence

Health Sciences Humanities Electronic Media Centre Finance & Accounts

Management Library & Material Production

Social Sciences
Studies Documentation & Distribution

Agriculture Law Planning & Development Regional Services

Sciences Student Registration

STRIDE
& Evaluation

Figure 7.6: Organisational Set Up of the IGNOU

7.7.2 Flow Charts

Flow charts are used most commonly in any situation where we wish to
represent the information which flows through different situations to its ultimate
point. These charts can also be used to indicate the flow of information about
various aspects i.e., material flow, product flow (distribution channels), funds
flow etc.
3 9
Processing and Presentation The following Figure 7.7 relates to the marketing channels for fruits, which will
of Data give you an understanding about flow charts.

Growers

Processors Pre-Harvest
Contractors

Commission Agent in
Wholesaler Exports Wholesale Market

Retail Wholesaler

Retail Shop Howker Exporter

Consumer

Consumer Exports

Figure 7.7 : Marketing channels for fruits

Self Assessment Exercise F

1) Prepare an organizational chart of any organization of your own choice.

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2) Represent the different stages in processing of Data (Unit 6 of this course)

through a flow chart.
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4 0
 Diagrammatic and
7.8 GRAPHIC PRESENTATION Graphic Presentation

So far we have discussed about one of the techniques of visual presentation of

data i.e., diagrammatic presentation. You will appreciate as to how such
presentation eliminates the dullness of data and makes it more interesting, and
also helps in comparison between two or more frequency distributions. Now, we
will study another important technique of visual presentations of statistical data
i.e., graphic presentation. You might have seen the graphic representation of
stock index, cricket score, production trends etc., in various magazines and on
television. Everybody, irrespective of whether he/she is a layman or an expert,
has a natural fascination for appropriate graphical presentation of data which
remains an essential part of research methodology. The graphic presentation of
data leaves an impact on the mind of readers, as a result of which it is easier
to draw trends from the statistical data.

The shape of a graph offers easy and appropriate answers to several questions,
such as:

l The direction of curves on the graph makes it very easy to draw comparisons.
l The presentation of time series data on a graph makes it possible to interpolate
or extrapotrate the values, which helps in forecasting.
l The graph of frequency distribution helps us to determine the values of Mode,
Median, Quartiles, percentiles, etc.
l The shape of the graph helps in demonstrating the degree of inequality and
direction of correlation
For all such advantages it is necessary for a researcher to have an
understanding of different types of graphic presentation of data. In practice,
there are a variety of graphs which can be used to depict the data. However,
here we will discuss only a few graphs which are more frequently used in
business research.

Broadly, the graphs of statistical data may be classified into two types, one is
graphs of time series, another is graphs of frequency distribution. We will
discuss both these types, after studying the parts of a graph.

Parts of a Graph
The foremost requirement for a researcher is to be aware of the basic
principles for using the graph paper for presentation of statistical data
graphically.

Conventionally, graphs are drawn on a graph paper. Two perpendiculars are

drawn which intersect each other at right angles. This intersecting point is
called the origin point or the ‘zero’ point. The horizontal line is known as ‘X’
axis (ordinate) on which independent variables are shown while the vertical line
is known as ‘Y’ axis (abscissa) on which dependent variables are shown. The
graph paper is thus divided into four parts, termed as “quadrants”. These
quadrants are meant to depict the positive values and negative values of X
variable and Y variable. By observing the following Chart 7.1. You will
understand clearly about the purpose of quadrants of a graph.

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Processing and Presentation
of Data
Y

5
QUADRANT-II 4 QUADRANT-I

3
X–Negative Values X–Positive Values
2
Y–Positive Values Y–Positive Values
1
X X
-5 -4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 5
-1
-2
QUADRANT-III QUADRANT-IV
-3
X–Negative Values -4 X–Positive Values
Y–Negative Values Y–Negative Values
-5

Y
Chart 7.1 : Parts of a Graph

After understanding the above parts of a graph, let us study the different types
of graphs.

7.9 GRAPHS OF TIME SERIES

A time series is a set of values of a variable or variables arranged over a
period of time. For example, the data relating to the production, sales
expenditure, exports etc., during the last ten years. Thus a graph of time series
is prepared to show the values of one or more than one variables over a period
of time. This type of graphs are also termed as time graphs or historigrams,
because history is represented graphically. These graphs are helpful in studying
the changes over a period of time and forecasting.

Historigrams can be constructed in two ways: 1) on a natural scale, (arithmatic

scale), 2) on a ratio scale. The natural scale graph reflects the changes in
absolute values over a period of time, where as the ratio scale graph reflects
the relative changes over a period of time. In this unit, however, we study the
historigarms on a natural scale which is generally used in business research.

Construction of Historigrams on Natural Scale

Natural scale graphs are used to show the absolute values or relative values in
terms of percentages, such as index numbers of a time series.

The following Principles should be kept in mind while constructing historigrams

so that the reader should not have to search through the text in order to
understand a graph.

1) On X-axis we take the time as an independent variable and on Y axis the values
of data as dependent variable. Plot the different points corresponding to given
data; then the points are joined by a straight line in the order of time.
2) Equal magnitude of scale must be maintained on X-axis as well as on Y-axis.
3) The Y-axis normally starts with zero. In case, there is a wide difference
between the lowest value of the data and zero (origin point), the Y-axis can be
broken and a false base line may be drawn. However, it will be explained under
4 2 the related problem in this section.
 4) If the variables are in different units, double scales can be taken on the Y Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation
axis.
5) The scales adopted should be clearly indicated and the graph must have a
self-explanatory title.
6) Unfortunately, graphs lend themselves to considerable misuse. The same
data can give different graphical shapes depending on the relative size of
two axes. In order to avoid such misrepresentations the convention in
research is to construct graphs, wherever possible, such that the vertical axis
is around 2/3 to 3/4 the length of the horizontal.
After having learnt about the principles for construction of historigrams, we
move on to discuss the types of historigrams. There are various types which
have been developed. Among them the frequently used graphs are one variable
graphs and more than one dependent variable graphs. We will now look at the
construction of these graphs.

7.9.1 Graph of one Dependent Variable

When there is only one dependent variable, the values of the dependent variable
are taken on Y axis, while the time is taken on X-axis. Study the following
illustration carefully and try to understand the method of construction for one
dependent variable historigrams.

Illustration 6

The following data relates to India's exports to USA during the period of 1994-
2000. Represent the data graphically.

Year 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000

Exports 5310 5726 6170 7322 8237 9071 10687
(In million $)

Y
11000 10687

10000
9000 9071
Export to USA (in million $)

8237
8000
7322
7000
6000 6130
5726
5000 5310
4000
3000
2000
1000
0 X
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000
Years
Figure 7.8: Historigram Showing India's Exports to USA During 1994-2000. 4 3
Processing and Presentation False base line
of Data
In the above graph (Figure 7.8), the scale on Y axis has been taken as 1cm =
1,000 million starting from the origin point i.e., zero. Consequently, the portion of
the graph paper, on which lies the scale between zero and the smallest value of
the data (5310) is omitted and only the above half of the graph paper is used
to depict the data because, there is a wide difference between zero and the
lowest value of the given data. Therefore, the curve which is drawn is not
significant to understand the fluctuations. In such a situation, in order to use the
space of the graph paper effectively, it is mandatory to draw a false base line.
By using the false base line, minor fluctuations are amplified and they become
clearly visible on the graph. The false base line breaks the continuity of the
scale of Y axis from the origin point, i.e., zero by drawing a horizontal wave
line in between the zero and the first centimeter on the scale of Y axis.

Let us consider the above illustration-6 to represent the data graphically by

drawing a false base line, so that we can practically understand and appreciate
the importance of the false base line for effective presentation of data on a
graph sheet. Study Figure 7.9 carefully.

Y
11000

10500
10000 10687
9500

9000
8500 9071
8000

7500 8237

7000
7322
6500

6000
6170
5500 5726
5000 5310

0 X
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000

Figure 7.9 : Historigram Showing India's Exports to USA During 1994-2000.

7.9.2 Graph of more than one dependent variable

When the data of time series relate to more than one dependent variable,
curves must be drawn for each variable separately. These graphs are prepared
in the same manner as we prepare one dependent variable historigram. Let us
consider the following data to construct historigrams. Study Figure 7.10 carefully
and understand the procedure for preparation of this type of graph.
4 4
Illustration-7 Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation

Years 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000
Sales
(In 31 58 42 65 75 80 72 96 83 98
lakh)
Cost
of Sales 42 50 48 55 82 75 62 80 67 73
(Rs. In
Lakh)
Profit/ –11 +8 –6 +10 –7 +5 +10 +20 +16 +25
Loss
Solution : The given data comprises of three variables, so, we have to draw
a separate curve for each variable. In this graph, it is not necessary to draw
false base line because the minimum value is close to the point of origin (zero).
For easy identification, each curve is marked differently.

Y Sales Cost of Sales Profit & Loss

100
Sales, Cost of Sales and Profit & loss (Rs. in lakhs)

80

60

40

20

0 X

-20 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000

Years

Figure 7.10 : Historigram Showing Sales, Cost of Sales and Profit/Loss of a Company
During 1991-2000

The above graph clearly reveals that with passage of time the profits are rising
after 1996, even though the sales are fluctuating slightly.

4 5
Processing and Presentation
of Data Self Assessment Exercise G

Represent the following data graphically by showing Exports, Imports and

Balance of Trades.

Years 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000

Exports (In lakh) 52 46 62 58 72 89 92
Imports (In Rs. 48 52 69 51 60 80 96
Lakhs)

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7.10 GRAPHS OF FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION

We have seen in Unit-6 the presentation of frequency distribution in the form of
tables. Frequency distribution can also be presented in the form of graphs.
Such graphs give a better understanding and provide illustrative information to
readers than the data in tabular form. It is true that effective graphs can
markedly increase a reader’s comprehension of complex data sets. Compared
to tables, graphs of frequency distribution are helpful in identifying the
characteristics and relationships of the data. These graphs are also useful in
locating the positional averages such as mode, median, qualities etc. In a
continuous frequency distribution, class-limits/mid-values are taken on X axis and
the frequency on the Y-axis. The vertical axis (Y-axis) is not broken, thus the
false base line cannot be taken.

A frequency distribution can be portrayed by means of Histogram, frequency

polygon, ogive curves and scatter diagram. However, the scatter diagram will
be discussed in Unit-10 of this course.

Let us study the procedure involved in the preparation of these types of graphs.

7.10.1 Histogram and Frequency Polygon

Histogram: The graph usually drawn to represent a frequency distribution is

called a Histogram. A histogram is a set of rectangles (vertical bars) each
proportionate in width to the magnitude of a class interval and proportionate in
area to the number of frequencies concerning the classes’ intervals. In a
histogram, the variables (class-intervals) are always shown on X-axis and the
4 6 frequencies are taken on the Y-axis. In constructing a histogram there should
not be any gap between two successive rectangles, and the data must be in Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation
exclusive form of classes. However, we cannot construct histogram for
distribution with open-end classes and it can be quite misleading if the
distribution has unequal class intervals.

The value of mode can be determined from the histogram. The procedure for
locating the mode is to draw a straight line from the top right corner of the
highest rectangle (Modal Class) to the top right corner of the preceding
rectangle (Pre Modal Class). Similarly, draw a straight line from the top left
corner of the highest rectangle to top left corner of the succeeding rectangle
(Post Modal Class). Draw a perpendicular from the point of intersection of
these two straight lines to X-axis. The point where it meets the X-axis gives
the value of mode. This is shown in Figure 7.11. However, graphic location of
Mode is not possible in a multi-distribution.

Frequency Polygon: Polygon means ‘many-angled’ diagram. This is another

way of depicting a frequency distribution graphically. It facilitates comparison of
two or more frequency distributions. Frequency polygon can be drawn either
from the histogram or from the given data directly.

The procedure for the construction of a frequency polygon by histogram is to

first draw the histogram, as explained earlier, of the given data. Then, put a dot
at the mid-point of the top horizontal line of each rectangle bar and join
these dots by straight lines.

Another way of drawing frequency polygon is to obtain the mid-values of class

intervals and plot them on X-axis. Mark frequency along the Y axis. Then, plot
the frequency values corresponding to each mid point and connect them through
straight lines. The area left outside is just equal to the area included in it.
Hence, the area of a polygon is equal to the area of histogram. The difference
between the histogram and the polygon is that the histogram depicts the
frequency of each class separately where as the polygon does it collectively.
The histogram is usually associated with the data of discrete series, while
frequency polygon is for continuous series data.

Let us, now, take up an illustration to learn how to draw a histogram, and
frequency polygon practically and also determine the mode. The data relates to
the sales of computers by different companies.

Illustration-8

Sales (Rs. 0-10 10-20 20-30 30-40 40-50 50-60 60-70 70-80
In crores)
No. of
Companies 8 20 35 50 90 70 30 15

Solution : For drawing histogram, as explained earlier, we have to show

sales on X - axis and number of companies on Y-axis by selecting a suitable
scale. For drawing frequency polygon, plot dots on the top middle of each
rectangle, and join them by straight lines.

4 7
Processing and Presentation 100
of Data
90

80

70
Histogram

No. of companies
60

50
Frequency Polygan
40

30

20

10

0
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
Z = 46.67
Sale of computers (Rs. in crores)
Figure 7.11: Histogram and Frequency Polygon for Computer Sales of Various
Companies

Remark: The calculation of Mode will be discussed in Unit 8 of this block.

Self Assessment Exercise H

The monthly production of units by a sample of 200 workers in a bulbs

manufacturing firm is given in the following table.

Output 200- 225- 250- 275- 300- 325- 350- 375-

(Units) 225 250 275 300 325 350 375 400
No. of 12 21 25 40 49 28 17 8
Workers

i) Draw a historgram and frequency polygon.

ii) Determine the mode graphically.

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4 8
7.10.2 Cumulative Frequency Curves Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation

Some times we are interested in knowing how many families are there in a
city, whose earnings are less than Rs. 5,000 p.m. or whose earning are more
than Rs. 20,000 p.m. In order to obtain this information, we have first of all
to convert the ordinary frequency table into cumulative frequency table. When
the frequencies are added they are called cumulative frequencies. The curves
so obtained from the cumulative frequencies are called ‘cumulative frequency
curves’, popularly known as “ogives”. There are two types of ogives namely
less than ogive, and more than ogive. Let us know about the procedure
involved in drawing these two ogives.

In less than ogive, we start with the upper limit of each class and the
cumulative (addition) starts from the top. When these frequencies are plotted
we get less than ogive. In case of more than ogive we start with the lower
limit of each class and the cumulation starts from the bottom. When these
frequencies are plotted we get more than ogive. You should bear in mind that
while drawing ogives the classes must be in exclusive form.

The ogives are useful to determine the number of items above or below a
given value. It is also useful for comparison between two or more frequency
distributions and to determine certain values (positional values) such as mode,
median, quartiles, percentiles etc. Let us take up an illustration to understand
how to draw ogives practically. Observe carefully the procedures involved in it.

Note: Mode and Median are explained in Unit 8. Similarly, quartiles are in
Unit 9. This illustration can be better understood only after studying those units.

Illustration-9

The following data relates to the monthly operating expenses incurred by a

sample of 200 small-scale industrial units in a city. You are required to draw
ogives and locate the Q1, Q3 and Median (Q2).

Operating Expenses No. of Units

(Rs. In thousands)
0-20 7
20-40 18
40-60 22
60-80 34
80-100 53
100-120 26
120-140 18
140-160 10
160-180 7
180-200 5

Solution : To depict “less than” and “more than” cumulative frequency

curves (ogives), first, we have to convert the above distribution into “less than”
and “more than” cumulative frequency distribution. Study carefully the
procedure for conversion of ordinary frequency into cumulative frequencies as
shown below: 4 9
Processing and Presentation
of Data “Less than” Method “More than” Method
Operating Expenses Frequency Operating Expenses Frequency
(Rs. In ’000) (Rs. In ’000)
Less than 20 7 More than 0 200
Less than 40 25 More than 20 193
Less than 60 47 More than 40 175
Less than 80 81 More than 60 153
Less than 100 134 More than 80 119
Less than 120 160 More than 100 66
Less than 140 178 More than 120 40
Less than 160 188 More than 140 22
Less than 180 195 More than 160 12
Less than 200 200 More than 180 5

The cumulative frequencies presented in the above table have the following
interpretation.

The ‘less than’ cumulative frequencies are to be read against upper class limits.
In contrast, the ‘more than’ cumulative frequencies are to be read against
lower class boundaries. For instance, there are 7 units with operating expenses
of less than Rs. 20,000, there are 160 units with operating expenses of less
than Rs. 120,000. On the other hand, there are 153 units with operating
expenses more than Rs. 60,000; no units with operating expenses more than or
equal to Rs. 2,00,000.

“More than” Type

200 “Less than” Type
180
No. of Small scale industrial units

160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200
Q1 = 60.18 Me = 80.77 Q3 = 112.31
Operating Expenses (Rs. in 000'

Fig 7.12: ‘Less than’ and ‘More than’ Cumulative Frequency Curves Showing the Operating Expenses
5 0 (Rs. in’ 000) of Small Scale Industrial Units.
Now, look at Figure 7.12 which shows both the cumulative curves on the same Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation
graph. Study carefully and understand the procedures for drawing ogives.

From the above ogives, the median can be located by drawing a perpendicular
from the intersection of the two ogives to X-axis. The point where the
perpendicular touches X-axis would be the Median of the distribution. Similarly,
the perpendicular drawn from the intersection of the two curves to the Y-axis
would divide the sum of frequencies into two equal parts. The values of
positional averages like Q1, D6, P50, etc., can also be located with the help of
an item’s value on the less than ogive. In the above figure determination of Q1
and Q3 are shown as an illustration.

Self Assessment Exercise I

The following data relates to the monthly expenditure on food incurred by a

sample of 150 families in an institution.

Monthly Expenditure No. of families

2,500 – 3,000 18
3,000 – 3,500 30
3,500 – 4,000 42
4,000 – 4,500 36
4,500 – 5,000 12
5,000 – 5,500 8
5,500 – 6,000 4

a) Draw more-than cumulative frequency curve and less than cumulative

frequency curve.

b) Locate the median monthly expenditure using your ogive.

c) How many sample families are approximately spending less than 3,800 on
food.

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5 1
Processing and Presentation
of Data 7.11 LET US SUM UP
Statistical data not only requires a careful analysis but also ensures an attractive
and communicative display. The work of the researcher is to understand the
facts of the data himself/herself and also to present them in such a form that
their significance may be understandable to a common reader. In order to
achieve this objective, we have, in this unit, discussed the techniques of
diagrammatic and graphic presentation of statistical data. Besides, presenting the
data in the form of tables, data can also be presented in the form of diagrams
and graphs. Such visual presentation of data allows relation between numbers to
be exhibited clearly and attractively, makes quick comparison between two or
more data sets easier, brings out hidden facts and the nature of relationship,
saves time and effort, facilitates the determination of various statistical
measures such as Mean, Mode, Median, Quartiles, Standard deviation etc., and
establishes trends of past performance. Hence, with the help of the diagrams
and graphs the researcher can effectively communicate to readers the
information contained in a large mass of numerical data.

We have discussed the method for constructing simple bar diagram, multiple bar
diagram, sub-divided bar diagram, pie diagram and structure diagrams.

In graphs, we discussed graphs of time series (Historigrams), graphs of

frequency distribution (Histograms, frequency polygon, and cumulative frequency
curves). It is essential to keep in mind the basic principles while using the
diagrams and graphs for presenting the data.

7.12 KEY WORDS

Bar : Is a thick line where the length of the bars should be proportional to the
magnitude of the variable they represent.

Continuous Data : Data that may progress from one class to the next without
a break and may be expressed by either fractions or whole number.

Discrete Data : Data that do not progress from one class to the next without
break, i.e., where classes represent distinct categories or counts and may be
represented by whole numbers only.

False Base Line : A line that is drawn between the origin point (zero) and
the first c.m., by breaking Y-axis in case of historigrams. Hence the scale of
Y-axis does not start at zero.

Flow Chart : Presents the information which flows through various situations
to the ultimate point.

Frequency Polygon : A line graph connecting the mid-points of each class in

a data set.

Historigram : A graph of time series.

Histogram : A graph of a frequency distribution, composed of a series of

rectangles, each proportional in width to the range of a class interval and
proportional in height to the number of observations falling in the class.

Organisational Chart : A diagram specially designed to show the structure of

5 2 an organisation.
Ogive : A graph of a cumulative frequency distribution. Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation
Pie Diagram : A circle divided into slices showing the relative areas of various
components of the variable.

Structure Diagram : Displays the structural data (qualitative) in the form of

charts.

7.13 ANSWERS TO SELF ASSESSMENT

EXERCISES
A. 1) Relieves the dullness of the numerical data; 2) Facilitates comparison; 3)
Saves time and effort; 4) Facilitates the location of various statistical measures
and establishes trends; 5) Universal applicability; and 6) Is an integral part of
research.
D. No, In sub-divided bar diagram, all items do not have a common base to enable
one to compare acurately the various items of the data. Where as in multiple bar
diagram, various items of a phenomena have a common base and are placed
together side by side. Hence, comparison is very easy rather than in a sub-
divided bar diagram.

E. Steps : 1) Find out the percentages of each reason for buying face cream.
2) Convert the percentages into degree of angle. 3) Then depict the percentages
in a circle with the help of their respective degree of angles.

7.14 TERMINAL QUESTIONS/EXERCISES

1) Explain the significance of visual presentation of statistical data in research
work.
2) Give a brief description of the different kinds of diagrams generally used in
business research to present the data.
3) What are structure diagrams? Explain each with an illustration the method of
representing the information by different structure diagrams.
4) Explain the principles of constructing a graph of time series. Under which
situation the false base line will be used?
5) Survey your own statistics class in terms of the variables age, sex and income.
Use the graphing techniques outlined in the unit to describe your results.
6) Represent the following data relating to exports of agricultural and allied
products to Russia during 1996-2000 by a suitable diagram.

Year 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-2000 2000-01

Export (In
$ million) 340 448 336 333 490

7) Draw a Multiple bar and sub-divided bar diagrams to represent the following
data relating to the enrollment of various programmes in an open university
over a period of four years and comment on it.

5 3
Processing and Presentation
of Data Programme No. of Candidate enrolled
1998-99 1999-2000 2000-01 20001-02
MBA 1,565 2,356 1,924 3,208
M.Com 872 1,208 1,118 1,097
B.A. 1,600 1,220 1,090 987
B.Com 726 948 1,458 1,220

8) Construct a pie diagram to describe the following data which relates to the
amount spent on various heads under Rural development programme.

Various heads Rupees (in crores)

Agriculture 1,280
Rural Industries 450
Public Health 150
Transport 600
Education 325
Housing 40
Public Utilities 10

What features of this distribution does your pie diagram mainly illustrate?

9) The following table gives the Index numbers of wholesale Prices (Average) of
Cereals, Pulses and oilseeds over a period of 7 yrs. Compare these prices
through a suitable graph.

Years Cereals Pulses Oilseeds

1997 433 398 529
1998 486 420 638
1999 520 415 829
2000 690 524 750
2001 430 415 858
2002 482 358 884
2003 624 494 866

10)Draw histogram and frequency polygon of the following distribution. Locate the
approximate mode with the help of histogram.

Weekly wages 100– 120– 140– 160– 180– 200– 220–

(In Rs.) 120 140 160 180 200 220 240
No. of 26 52 87 93 34 26 12
Workers

5 4
11) The following data relating to sales of 80 companies are given below Diagrammatic and
Graphic Presentation
Sales (Rs.Lakhs) No. of Companies
5-15 8
15-25 13
25-35 19
35-45 14
45-55 10
55-65 7
65-75 6
75-85 3

Draw cumulative frequency curves. Determine the number of companies whose

sales are:
(i) more than 50 lakhs. (ii) Less than Rs. 30 lakhs (iii) Between Rs. 30 lakhs to
Rs. 50 lakhs.

Note: These questions/exercises will help you to understand the unit better.
Try to write answers for them. But do not submit your answers to the
university for assessment. These are for your practice only.

7.15 FURTHER READING

The following text books may be used for more indepth study on the topics
dealt with in this unit.
Moskowitz; H. and G.P. Wright 1998 Statistics for Management and
Economics, Charles E. Merill Publishing Company: Ohio, U.S.A.
Gupta, S.P. and M.P. Gupta, 2000. Business Statistics, Sultan Chand & Sons:
New Delhi.
Sinha, S.C. and Dhiman, A.K. 2002. Research Methodology, Vol. 1. Ess Ess
Publication, New Delhi.
George Argyrons. 2000. Statistics for Social and Health Research with a
Guide to SPSS. Sate Publications. New Delhi.

5 5