Data visualization principles

Effective data visualization transforms complex numbers into instant understanding. The right chart type depends on your story: line graphs show trends over time, bar charts compare categories, and scatter plots reveal relationships between variables. Poor visualization choices obscure insights and mislead stakeholders.

Color serves function, not decoration. Use consistent palettes where similar colors group related data. Limit yourself to 5-7 colors maximum. High contrast ensures readability, while color blindness considerations make charts accessible to all viewers. Gray backgrounds help colored data pop without overwhelming viewers.

Less is more in data visualization. Remove gridlines, borders, and 3D effects that add visual noise without information. Start Y-axes at zero for bar charts to avoid exaggerating differences. Label data directly on charts when possible, eliminating the need for complex legends that force eye movement.