Data visualization is the art of making complex information understandable and impressive. 5 core principles for effective data viz:
5 core principles for effective data visualization:
- Accuracy: Your graph should reflect the data accurately, not be manipulative
- Y-axis should start from zero
- Use proportional scales
- Purpose: Every visualization should have a clear purpose
- Bar chart for comparison
- Line chart for trends
- Scatter plot for relationships
- Pie chart for components (use sparingly!)
- Simplicity: Maximize the data-ink ratio
- Remove unnecessary lines, shadows, 3D effects
- Avoid chartjunk
- Context: Provide context that makes data meaningful
- Add comparison points
- Explain anomalies
- Story: Tell a story with your data
- Guide users to important insights
- Create focal points with color and emphasis
Good data visualization makes complex ideas quickly comprehensible.