To show differences, you use a line graph. To show magnitude you use a bar graph (as a general rule).
The principle of proportional ink states that sizes should be relative, meaning bar graphs should all start at zero.
If you wish to demonstrate the change in a variable, use a line graph.
Units matter as well. If zero means a lack of quantity for the variable, zero is a valid starting point. If zero does NOT represent a lack of quantity, you do not have to start at zero.
Think temperatures: zero degrees does not mean a lack of degrees. Also, we typically consider the change in temperature over time. Hence, temperatures should be represented in a line graph.
TheProf t1_izh28jx wrote
Reply to comment by MrMitchWeaver in [OC] How to spot misleading charts? I would like to hear your opinion on the subject, also any tips design-wise? by dark_o3
To show differences, you use a line graph. To show magnitude you use a bar graph (as a general rule).
The principle of proportional ink states that sizes should be relative, meaning bar graphs should all start at zero.
If you wish to demonstrate the change in a variable, use a line graph.
Units matter as well. If zero means a lack of quantity for the variable, zero is a valid starting point. If zero does NOT represent a lack of quantity, you do not have to start at zero.
Think temperatures: zero degrees does not mean a lack of degrees. Also, we typically consider the change in temperature over time. Hence, temperatures should be represented in a line graph.