Graphs
vs. tables
Types--line, bar, pie, 3-D
Making graphs
Figure out range of variables
Axes 2 by 3 or 2 by 2
Lay out scales and tic marks
Label axes
Legend marks
Plot points
Add lines
Add title
Good vs. bad graphs
Graph purposes (Tufte)
To avoid lying:
1. Label everything clearly
2. Make figures proportional to numbers
3. Adjust $ for inflation
4. Use equal increments on X-axis.
5. Don’t stretch axes
6. Use similar ranges.
Good vs. bad graphs
Minimize data-ink ratio
Get rid of moire vibration
Get rid of grids
Spell out words (no abbrev.)
Run words left to right (not vertically)
Add messages to explain data.
Avoid cross-hatching and colors.
Avoid using legend
Good vs. bad graphs
Avoid red/green contrasts
Use upper and lower case type with serifs