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Your readers will understand your data more easily if it is presented in small chunks rather than all at once. Consider your audience and purpose when deciding how much data to include in a single graphic. For instance, a winemaker familiar with analyzing statistical data from wine-sensory studies would likely be able to understand a complex graph showing five different wines and scores for twelve sensory attributes (for example, color intensity, aroma intensity, acidity, and so on). A general audience interested in selecting a wine to go with dinner would likely be confused by this type of graph and overwhelmed with data.
A graphic should present a manageable amount of information. The first pie chart uses too many slices to present information on monthly expenditures to a general audience interested in learning about household budgets. In addition, the first pie chart also includes a redundant key that lists each of the items. In contrast, the second example combines similar categories and makes it easier for readers to judge the relative sizes of household expenses.
Too much data
Figure 12. Typical Household Expenditures
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Revised
Figure 12. Typical Household Expenditures
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