Selecting the right graphic is the strategic practice of transforming complex information into clear, actionable understanding. It involves matching data type and intent to visual form, applying principles of clarity and simplicity, and ensuring the graphic communicates its message without explanation. It is achieved by understanding the distinct purpose of each visualization type and rigorously applying design standards to serve the audience’s comprehension.
Bar Graph
Comparing discrete categories or tracking changes in data over time.
✔ Use vertical or horizontal bars to compare different sets of data directly
✔ Employ stacked bars to show part-to-whole relationships within categories
✔ Ensure consistent spacing and proportional sizing between all bars
✔ Label axes clearly and use a legend if comparing multiple data series
✔ Choose contrasting colors for different categories to enhance readability
Line Graph
Displaying trends, progressions, or changes in continuous data over time.
✔ Plot data points chronologically on a clear, scaled horizontal axis
✔ Connect points with straight lines to emphasize direction and rate of change
✔ Use multiple lines to compare several trends on the same timeframe
✔ Avoid cluttering the chart with more than 3-4 lines for clarity
✔ Mark significant events or milestones directly on the graph for context
Pie Chart
Showing the proportional composition or distribution of a single whole.
✔ Ensure all segments add up to 100% of the measured total
✔ Limit the chart to a maximum of five segments for immediate comprehension
✔ Order segments from largest to smallest, starting at the 12 o’clock position
✔ Use distinct, high-contrast colors for each segment
✔ Label segments directly or with a clear, adjacent legend
Flowchart
Illustrating a sequence of steps, a decision-making process, or workflow.
✔ Arrange shapes and arrows to flow logically from left to right or top to bottom
✔ Use standardized shapes for different actions (rectangle=process, diamond=decision)
✔ Keep text within shapes concise and action-oriented
✔ Maintain consistent spacing and alignment for a clean, professional appearance
✔ Test the flowchart by tracing a path to ensure the process is logical and complete
Mind Map
Organizing ideas, concepts, or information around a central theme.
✔ Place the main topic in the center and radiate primary branches outward
✔ Use keywords or short phrases, not sentences, on each branch
✔ Employ color, thickness, and imagery to denote hierarchy and relationships
✔ Structure the map to grow organically, grouping related concepts together
✔ Utilize digital features like hyperlinks to connect to supporting documents
Gantt Chart
Planning projects and tracking task schedules, assignments, and progress.
✔ List tasks vertically and use horizontal bars to show their duration on a timeline
✔ Clearly indicate task dependencies with connecting lines or arrows
✔ Use color coding to distinguish between task types, owners, or status
✔ Include milestones as diamond symbols or distinct markers
✔ Update the chart regularly to reflect actual progress versus the plan
Timeline
Displaying a chronological sequence of events, milestones, or deadlines.
✔ Use a horizontal line scaled appropriately for the time period covered
✔ Plot events as points or bars along the line, aligned to their dates
✔ Include concise labels and, if space allows, brief descriptions for each event
✔ Use visual cues (icons, colors) to categorize different types of events
✔ Ensure the scale is consistent and clearly marked for the audience
Map
Presenting data that is fundamentally tied to geographic location.
✔ Choose a map projection and detail level appropriate for your data’s geographic scope
✔ Use color shading, dots, or symbols to represent data values across regions
✔ Include a clear legend explaining the meaning of colors, sizes, or symbols
✔ Ensure labels for countries, cities, or regions are legible and non-obstructive
✔ Avoid overcrowding; simplify geographic detail to highlight the data story
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