Graphs show relationships between data by means of a line, shape, pattern, or series of bars or other symbols for 2 (or more) measures or variables. For example, 2 variables are represented along a pair of axes at right angles. A horizontal (x) axis and a vertical (y) axis intersect at a point called the origin, and are calibrated in the units or categories of the measurement or variable they represent.

Irrespective of the type of graph created, it usually includes:

• graph title (figure name)
• axes – quantitative or nominal (categorical)
• scale, units and categories
• axis titles
• plot area or data region
• encoded data (eg dots, bars or lines)
• trend line or other statistical reference
• confidence intervals (if necessary) – lines or shading
• legend
• notes
• citation for data source
• if published online, alternative text for accessibility.

This section covers:

• Bar graphs
• Stacked bar graphs
• Line graphs
• Stacked area graphs
• Box plots
• Dot plots
• Scatter plots
• Strip plots.