Methods of Graphical Representation of Data​ in Statistics

Graphical representations present information in visual form so that it can appear like meaningful data, and people can easily understand it. This includes illustrating how the data, concepts, information, and principles connect. It is easy to grasp and is one of the easiest ways to gain knowledge. There are different types of graphical representations that we will be discussing in the next section. NEET and CUET often ask questions that require presenting data in a graphical way. Therefore, it is important to understand all methods in a detailed manner. Let us first list the different forms briefly. The following is a list of different types of graphical representations:

1. Bar Chart
2. Line Graph
3. Pie Chart
4. Scatter Plot
5. Histogram
6. Area Chart
7. Box Plot
8. Heat Map
9. Bubble Chart
10. Network Diagram
11. Gantt Chart
12. Radar Chart
13. Tree Map
14. Venn Diagram

This concept is taught in the chapter ‘Statistics.’ This chapter carries 5 marks.

Graphical representation visually displays information, making it easier to understand complex datasets and relationships. Here are some common types of graphical representations:

1. Bar Chart: This represents data in the form of rectangular bars, where the length of each bar is proportional to the value it represents. It is often used for comparing different categories.

2. Line Graph: It visually represents information as series of data points that are connected by straight line segments. Most people use it to show trends over time.

3. Pie Chart: This is a circular chart that is divided into pie-like sectors that represent a part of the complete circle. It is useful for showing the distribution in different pies.

4. Scatter Plot: It uses dots for representing values of two different numeric variables. This graphical representation is used to represnt the relationship or correlation between two variables.

5. Histogram: It looks like a bar chart, but it is used to represent the distribution of numerical data by grouping data points into ranges.

6. Gantt Chart: This is a bar chart that is used for illustrating the schedule of a project, which shows the beginning and end dates of elements of a project.

Data may be displayed readily by different types of graphical representations, but they must obey the following rules:  

• Suitable title: Be sure that the graph title indicates the critical emphasis of the graph. This will show what your graph wants to convey.
• Measurement units: Please write the dimensions of the graph to ensure that the person who wants to use the graph can easily interpret each data point. 
• Proper scale: To understand the data, use a correctly fitting scale so that it neither looks compressed nor too expanded.
• Index: Map the necessary shades, colours, shapes, and design so that different data points can be distinguished. This will help better understand the graphs. 
• Data sources: The source of information should be specified on the graph to ensure its authenticity and accuracy. 
• Keep it simple: Take a visual approach that is easy to follow and makes the data simpler to understand. The aim is to lower complexity and make the data more understandable.
• Neat: Choose the right type of design, font, colours, etc., in such a way that the presentation can justify the way content is being represented. 

All in all, the aim of graphical representation is to present data in a logical, organised and clear manner. This approach will turn the information into meaningful and valuable data. Many exams, such as JEE Main and IIT JAM have a data interpretation section which requires the aspirant to know graphical representation. 

Q: What are the different graphical representations of data? 

Q: For what benefits is the graphical method useful? 

Q: What is graphical representation? 

Q: What is diagrammatic representation? 

Q: What are some of the major types of charts?

1. Draw a histogram of the following data.

Solution.

Label the class interval along the X-axis, and the frequency across the Y-axis. 
Assume the class interval 0-10 with zero occurrences and class interval 90-100 with zero occurrences. 
Now, evaluate the middle of the class interval.