Data Visualization and techniques
Data Visualization and techniques
1. Multiple Quantities
📍 Scatterplots
Definition:
A scatterplot is a graph that shows the relationship between two numbers by using dots.
Each dot shows one observation or item.
Purpose:
Used to find out if two things are related, for example, does more sales mean more profit?
No need to always start axes at zero if it hides useful detail, but indicate it
clearly.
Make sure dots are visible; avoid too many overlapping dots:
Use outlines.
o Annotations:
Mark special points, like biggest sale, or profit loss.
Reading a Scatterplot:
o Positive Correlation: Dots rise from left to right.
o Shape:
Straight line = Linear; Curved = Non-linear.
o Outliers:
Dots far away from others — special cases needing investigation.
Warning:
Scatterplots can only show correlation — they do not prove one thing causes the other.
Example:
📍 Stacked Bars
Definition:
A stacked bar chart is a bar chart divided into segments, each showing part of the total.
Purpose:
To compare totals and also the components inside each total.
Types:
o Limitation:
It’s harder to compare the middle/top parts across bars (bottom part is easiest to
compare).
Example:
Definition:
Purpose:
Key Points:
o R² (R-squared): Percentage of how well the trend line fits the data (0%–100%).
Principles:
Example:
📍 Quadrant Chart
Definition:
A scatterplot with two crossing reference lines that divide the plot into 4 sections
(quadrants).
Purpose:
To categorize observations into groups for better strategic decisions.
Key Points:
Quadrant Interpretation:
Example:
📍 Line Chart
Definition:
A chart connecting data points over time using lines.
Purpose:
To show trends, patterns, seasonality, and overall movement across time.
Construction:
Interpretation:
Example:
Definition:
Line chart with two Y-axes showing two different measures.
Purpose:
To compare two trends together over time.
Caution:
Example:
📍 Connected Scatterplot
Definition:
A scatterplot where points are connected based on time order.
Purpose:
To show both the relationship between two variables and how it changes over time.
Steps:
Tip:
Example:
📍 Timeline
Definition:
A graphical representation of events or changes in order.
Purpose:
To highlight key milestones or important periods.
Steps:
o Date on X-axis.
📍 Slope Graph
Definition:
A simple graph to compare two time points for multiple categories using sloped lines.
Purpose:
To show increase or decrease across time for categories.
Steps:
📍 Circle Maps
Definition:
Maps with circles sized by a measure (e.g., Sales).
Purpose:
o Compare data across locations.
Example:
Tips:
📍 Filled Maps
Definition:
Maps where areas (states, countries) are shaded by a value (like Sales).
Purpose:
Example:
Tips:
📍 Dual-Encoded Maps
Definition:
Map using two visual encodings together: Size + Color.
Purpose:
Example:
Tips: