Preparing Effective Charts and Graphs
SECTION 3D: Vertical Bar Graph

Study the data and graphic below from a school district's annual report. Focus on these questions:
  1. How did the writer choose to arrange the bars on the graph? How would you arrange them in a more logical sequence?
  2. What data is this graph hiding?
  3. How effective is the title of the graph?

   View Answers and Revised Chart




Figure 1. Achievement in Our Schools in 2004
HOME: Introduction to this tutorial
1. Overview of the Process
  1. Analyze Your Audience and Purpose
  2. Understand the Limitations of Spreadsheet Programs
  3. Enter Data into a Spreadsheet Program
  4. Select Data to Include in a Graphic
  5. Choose the Appropriate Kind of Graphic
  6. Customize the Graphic for Your Audience and Purpose
  7. Select Where to Place the Graphic in the Spreadsheet
  8. Insert the Graphic into a Word-Processing or Presentation Program
  9. Integrate the Graphic and the Text
2. Designing Effective Charts & Graphs
  1. Make Sure Your Graphic Has a Purpose
  2. Aim for Simplicity
  3. Be Honest
  4. Present a Manageable Amount of Information
  5. Follow Common Conventions for Graphics
  6. Label Your Graphic
3. Sample Graphics for Analysis
  1. Pie Chart
  2. Gantt Chart
  3. 100-Percent Horizontal Bar Graph
  4. Vertical Bar Graph
  5. Line Graph


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