Guidelines
Constructing charts and graphs
General advice
- Do not mix different types of data (for example percentage and absolute figures) on the same chart, but draw up separate charts.
- Items should only be compared on the same chart if they have the same basic data structure and a clear relationship.
- Label the axes.
- Label data elements directly and include the unit of measurement. If there is insufficient room to label the elements directly, provide a key.
- Minimize the number of words used but, if possible, spell words out, rather than using abbreviations or codes. The majority of ink used to produce the graph should present the quantitative data. Delete anything which does not present fresh information, since this represents a barrier to communication.
Structure and layout
- Place the chart number and title at the top to allow the reader to identify and understand the purpose of the presentation before proceeding to the body of the graph.
- Use different fonts and styles to distinguish the chart title, axes and data element labels.
- Select an unobtrusive background.
The quantitative data
- Select colours for the data elements with high contrast from adjacent items.
- Avoid the combination of red and green on adjacent elements, which is one of the commonest problems for people who are colour-deficient.
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