Preparing Effective Charts and Graphs
SECTION 3E: Line Graph

Study the data and graphic below from a prospectus showing the share price of several mutual funds over a 12-month period. The prospectus is designed for a general audience interested in investing with the company. Focus on these questions:
  1. How effective is the type of graph chosen?
  2. How appropriate for the audience is the amount of data presented? If it is inappropriate, recommend a different approach for presenting the data.
  3. How effective is the scale?

   View Answers and Revised Chart





Congratulations, you've completed Preparing Effective Charts and Graphs: A Tutorial by Roger Munger. Please e-mail Mike Markel with any comments or suggestions you have about the tutorial.

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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