Tips for Data Visualization

Are excellent data visualization charts just listing and summarizing data? of course not! The true value of data visualization is to design data displays that can be easily understood by readers. Therefore, in the design process, every choice should ultimately be based on the reader's experience, not the individual chart maker.



Here is a summary of the tips for data visualization production. By listing some common mistakes that are easy to be ignored, you can finally quickly improve and consolidate your visualization production level.


1. The baseline of the bar graph must start from scratch

The principle of the bar graph is to compare the size of the value by comparing the length of the bar. When the baseline is changed, the visual effect is distorted.


2. Use simple and readable fonts


Sometimes, typography can enhance the visual effect and add extra emotion and insight. But data visualization is not included. Stick to a simple sans serif font (usually the default font in programs such as Excel). Sans-serif fonts are those fonts with no feet on the edges of the text.



3. The bar graph width is moderate

The interval between the bars should be 1/2 the width of the column.

4. Use 2D graphics

Although they look cool, 3d shapes can distort perception and therefore data. Insist on 2 dimensions to ensure accurate data.





5. Use table digital fonts

The table spacing gives all numbers the same width, so that they can be aligned with each other when arranged, making comparison easier. Most popular fonts have built-in tables. Not sure if the font is correct? Just see if the decimal point (or any number) is aligned.



6. A sense of unity
A sense of unity makes it easier for us to receive information: color, image, style, source...


7. Don't be overly passionate about pie charts
Show the proportion of multiple blocks, the sum of all blocks (arcs) is equal to 100%. But it is best to avoid using this chart, because the naked eye is not sensitive to the size of the area.

8. Use coherent lines in a line chart
Dotted lines, dashed lines are easy to distract. On the contrary, using solid lines and colors makes it easier to distinguish the difference from each other.

9. Respect the proportion of the whole
When people choose multiple choices, there will be overlaps in proportions, and the sum of the percentages of different choices is greater than one. In order to avoid this situation, the ratio cannot be directly made into a statistical graph. Rather than presenting numerical values, some diagrams focus more on the relationship between the part and the whole.


10. Area and size visualization
Distinguish the length, height or area of the same type of graphics (such as column, ring, spider, etc.) to clearly express the comparison between the corresponding index values of different indicators. When making this kind of data visualization graphics, mathematical formulas are used to express accurate scales and proportions.


11. Use size to visualize values
Size can help emphasize important information and add contextual hints. Using size to represent values is also very effective when used with maps. If you have multiple data points of the same size in your visualization, they will be mixed together, making it difficult to distinguish the values.

12. Use the same details
The more details (and numbers) added, the longer the brain will take to process it. Think about what you want to communicate with your data and what is the most effective way.


13. Use basic graphics
A good rule of thumb is that if you can’t understand efficiently, your readers or listeners may also be difficult to understand. Therefore, stick to the basic graphics: histogram, bar graph, Venn diagram, scatter plot and line graph.


14. Number of views

Limit the number of views in your visualization to three to four. If you add too many views, the big picture will be overwhelmed by detailed information.