There are so many types of diagrams to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is the best for your data. The 8tips below will help you select the right type of diagram for your needs.
1. Determine if a diagram is appropriate for your data.
Most people can recognize a graph when they see one, but selecting the right type of diagram to display your data isn’t always so easy. A graph is a visual representation of some kind of data — it takes raw numbers and puts them in a context that allows us to easily understand what those numbers mean. At their most basic level, graphs help us to see patterns in our data.
There are many different types of graphs, like line charts, bar charts, pert chart etc. Knowing which type of graph is best suited for your data will make all the difference in the quality of your presentation; selecting the wrong kind of graph could result in distracting visuals or confusing information. Whether you are looking at a bar graph or a pie chart, the type of data you are using will make all the difference in which one is most appropriate.
2. Determine what type of data you have and what it represents.
You first need to determine what your data is representing in order to select a suitable diagram. If you are plotting numerical data, it is most likely suitable for a graph. If you are dealing with measurements or discrete categories (e.g., political party affiliation), consider a diagram such as a circle chart or pie chart. You can even use more than one type of diagram within the same presentation to help clarify your message — make sure they complement each other and don’t detract from one another.
3. Determine if your primary message is directional or comparative.
All graphs are effective at representing information in either a directional format, which shows the change over time or by comparing different entities to each other (i.e., comparative). These two basic types of diagrams are the most common and easiest to understand. The type of information your graph will portray should be the final determinant in which diagram you select.
4. Make sure that what you’re left with doesn’t bring too much noise.
When selecting a diagram, it is important to consider whether or not your data may be better represented using other methods (e.g., tabular presentation, a map, a verbal description). Too much information simply presented can be overwhelming and difficult to understand.
5. Keep your message simple.
In choosing a diagram to use in your presentation, remember that you should not over-complicate things — keep the graphics as simple as possible while still effectively making your point. Making it too complex will result in confusion for your audience.
6.Select a diagram that has been tested beforehand.
It’s always good practice to test which type of diagram you are using to communicate with your target audience before presenting it at an important event or meeting because, as mentioned above, different types of information are best communicated through different types of diagrams. If possible, test the effectiveness of your graph with your intended audience before selecting it for use in an important presentation or report.
7. If you choose a circular diagram, make sure that the information you are trying to communicate is cyclical in nature.
As some types of diagrams become more complex, they lose their utility as effective means of communicating data. This is especially true of pie charts. Pie charts are best suited for representing cyclical information, such as the makeup of a company or product line by department or division, etc. Data that is not cyclical may be better represented through other methods. Consider using bar graphs instead.
8. Select a diagram that represents your data’s periodicity.
Pie charts should be used for representing cyclical data, while bar graphs should be used for all other data. The trick to selecting the right kind of diagram is knowing what your data represents and then finding a complementary type that makes it easy to communicate your point in the most effective way possible.
To make your own diagram, you can use Venngage — a free infographic maker that offers a wide range of diagram templates for everyone. Here are some diagram examples from their website!
A good rule of thumb is to always use a graph if you have numerical data. Line graphs and bar graphs are the most common types of diagrams used for representing numerical data — choose whichever one best fits your message.
If you’re not sure, try them both out and see which one works better for you. There really isn’t too much to keep in mind when constructing a graph — you can’t really go wrong as long as your data is represented and makes sense to those viewing it. With that said, always take the time beforehand to choose the best diagram that will effectively communicate your data and its intended message.
If you find it challenging to make your own diagram from scratch, then consider using an online diagram maker like Venngage. To start, click here.
