2.1 Display Data

3 min readjune 25, 2024

Stemplots, histograms, and time series graphs are powerful tools for visualizing data. These methods help us understand patterns, trends, and distributions in datasets of various sizes. Each technique serves a unique purpose, from analyzing small datasets to tracking changes over time.

By mastering these visualization methods, we can effectively communicate complex information and make data-driven decisions. Understanding how to construct and interpret these graphs is crucial for anyone working with data, whether in business, science, or everyday life.

Displaying Data

Stemplots for small datasets

Top images from around the web for Stemplots for small datasets
Top images from around the web for Stemplots for small datasets
  • Visualize small datasets (typically less than 50 data points) and identify patterns or outliers
  • Consist of a (first digit(s) of the data value) and leaves (last digit of the data value)
  • Split each data value into a stem and a , then plot accordingly
  • Constructing a involves:
    1. Determine the of the data values
    2. Choose an appropriate stem unit based on the range
    3. List the stems vertically in ascending order
    4. Place each data value's leaf next to the corresponding stem (if a data value has more than one digit in the leaf, place it next to the stem multiple times)
  • Interpret a stemplot by identifying the and values, looking for clusters, gaps, or outliers, and assessing the overall shape of the (, , or )

Histograms for large datasets

  • Display the distribution of a large dataset using bars representing the or of data values within specific ranges (bins)
  • Constructing a involves:
    1. Determine the range of the data values
    2. Choose an appropriate based on the range and desired number of bins
    3. Define the intervals
    4. Count the number of data values that fall within each bin
    5. Draw the with bin intervals on the and or relative frequency on the
  • Analyze a histogram by examining its shape (symmetric, skewed left or right, bimodal, or uniform), locating the approximate mean or median, observing the range and variability of the data, and identifying any outliers or unusual features
  • Similar to a , but used for continuous data rather than categorical data
  • Display data collected over a specific time period to show trends, patterns, and changes in the data over time (also known as a )
  • Components include time on the x-axis, variable of interest on the y-axis, and data points connected by lines to show the progression of the variable over time
  • Constructing a involves:
    1. Determine the time period and variable to be analyzed
    2. Collect data for the variable at regular intervals over the specified time period
    3. Plot the data points on the graph, with time on the x-axis and the variable on the y-axis
    4. Connect the data points with lines to show the over time
  • Interpret a time series graph by identifying the overall trend (increasing, decreasing, or stable), looking for seasonal patterns or , observing sudden changes or irregularities, and comparing the graph with other relevant variables or events to identify potential relationships or causes of changes

Additional Data Visualization Methods

  • : Used to display the relationship between two continuous variables, with each point representing a pair of values
  • : Displays the proportion of different categories in a dataset as slices of a circular "pie"
  • : Summarizes the distribution of a dataset using quartiles, showing the median, spread, and potential outliers
  • : Combines a bar chart and a line graph to show both individual values and cumulative totals, often used in quality control
  • : Represents individual data points as dots along a number line, useful for small datasets and comparing distributions

Key Terms to Review (36)

Bar Chart: A bar chart is a graphical representation of data that uses rectangular bars of varying lengths to display and compare values or quantities. It is a widely used data visualization tool that allows for easy interpretation and comparison of numerical information.
Bimodal: Bimodal refers to a probability distribution or data set that has two distinct peaks or modes, indicating the presence of two dominant groups or clusters within the data. This term is particularly relevant in the context of data display and analysis of skewness, as it provides insights into the underlying patterns and characteristics of the data.
Bin: A bin is a method of organizing and displaying data by dividing a continuous variable into distinct, non-overlapping intervals or groups. Binning is a common technique used in the context of data visualization and analysis, particularly when working with large datasets or variables with a wide range of values.
Bin Width: Bin width refers to the size or range of each individual bar or interval in a histogram, which is a graphical representation of the distribution of a dataset. It is a crucial parameter in the visual display of data, as it determines the level of detail and the overall appearance of the histogram.
Binomial distribution: The binomial distribution is a probability distribution that summarizes the likelihood of a value taking one of two independent states and is determined by the number of trials and the probability of success in each trial.
Box Plot: A box plot, also known as a box-and-whisker diagram, is a standardized way of displaying the distribution of data based on a five-number summary: the minimum, first quartile, median, third quartile, and maximum. It provides a visual representation of the central tendency, spread, and skewness of a dataset.
Cluster: A cluster refers to a group of data points that are similar to each other and distinct from other groups of data points. Clusters are a fundamental concept in the field of data visualization and analysis, as they help identify patterns and trends within a dataset.
Cyclical Behavior: Cyclical behavior refers to the recurring patterns or fluctuations observed in various economic and business indicators over time. These patterns often repeat at regular intervals, creating a cyclical trend that can be analyzed and predicted to some extent.
Distribution: Distribution is a fundamental concept in statistics that describes the spread, pattern, and characteristics of a set of data. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the values within a dataset and how they are arranged, which is crucial for making informed decisions and drawing meaningful conclusions.
Dot plot: A dot plot is a simple graphical representation of data that displays individual data points as dots along a number line. Each dot represents a single observation, making it easy to visualize the distribution of data, identify clusters, and spot gaps. This type of display is particularly useful for small to moderate-sized data sets, allowing for quick comparisons and insights into the data's shape.
Frequency: Frequency is the number of times a particular value or category occurs in a dataset. It is often used to summarize data distributions.
Frequency: Frequency refers to the number of times a particular value or event occurs within a given data set. It is a fundamental concept in data analysis and visualization, as it provides insights into the distribution and patterns within a dataset.
Gap: A gap, in the context of data display, refers to the space or discontinuity between data points or categories on a graph or chart. It highlights the absence or lack of information within a data set, providing visual cues about potential trends, outliers, or areas that require further investigation.
Histogram: A histogram is a graphical representation of data using bars of different heights. Each bar groups numbers into ranges and the height of each bar shows how many fall into each range.
Histogram: A histogram is a graphical representation that organizes a group of data points into ranges, or bins, and displays the frequency of data points that fall into each bin. It provides a visual summary of the distribution of a dataset, highlighting the shape, central tendency, and dispersion of the data.
Leaf: In the context of data visualization, a leaf refers to the smallest unit or terminal node in a tree-like data structure, such as a hierarchical chart or a treemap. Leaves represent the individual data points or values that are displayed at the lowest level of the visualization.
Line Graph: A line graph is a type of visual representation that displays information as a series of data points connected by straight line segments. It is commonly used to illustrate trends, changes, and relationships over time or across categories.
Long-term relative frequency: Long-term relative frequency is the proportion of times an event occurs in a large number of repetitions of a random experiment. It approaches the true probability as the number of trials increases.
Maximum: The maximum is the highest or largest value within a set of data. It represents the uppermost limit or peak of a distribution, function, or measurement. Understanding the concept of maximum is crucial in the context of data display and analysis.
Minimum: The minimum is the smallest or lowest value within a set of data points. It represents the smallest possible quantity or degree of something. In the context of data display, the minimum is a crucial statistic that provides insight into the range and distribution of the data.
Outlier: An outlier is an observation or data point that lies an abnormal distance from other values in a data set. It is a data point that stands out from the rest of the data and does not follow the overall pattern or trend exhibited by the majority of the data.
Paired data set: A paired data set consists of two sets of related observations, where each data point in one set is uniquely matched with a data point in the other set. These pairs are typically analyzed to determine relationships or differences between the two sets of observations.
Pareto Chart: A Pareto chart is a type of bar graph that illustrates the Pareto principle, which states that 80% of the effects come from 20% of the causes. It is a visual tool used to identify and prioritize the most significant factors or problems in a given situation.
Pie Chart: A pie chart is a circular statistical graphic that is divided into slices to illustrate the proportional size of different categories or variables within a dataset. It provides a visual representation of the relative sizes or percentages of the components that make up a whole.
Range: The range is a measure of the spread or dispersion of a set of data. It is calculated as the difference between the largest and smallest values in the dataset. The range provides a simple and straightforward way to quantify the variability or the extent of the data distribution.
Relative Frequency: Relative frequency is a statistical measure that expresses the frequency of an event or observation as a proportion or percentage of the total number of observations. It provides a way to describe the distribution and importance of different values or categories within a dataset.
Scatterplot: A scatterplot is a type of data visualization that displays the relationship between two quantitative variables by plotting individual data points on a coordinate plane. It allows for the identification of patterns, trends, and the potential existence of a linear or non-linear relationship between the variables.
Seasonal pattern: A seasonal pattern refers to a predictable change or fluctuation in a dataset that occurs at regular intervals throughout the year, often influenced by seasonal factors such as weather, holidays, or cultural events. Recognizing seasonal patterns is crucial for analyzing trends and making forecasts, as they can significantly affect business operations and consumer behavior.
Skewed: Skewed refers to the asymmetry or lack of symmetry in the distribution of a dataset. It describes a situation where the data points are not evenly distributed around the central tendency, resulting in a lopsided or unbalanced appearance of the data visualization.
Stem: In the context of data display, a stem refers to the vertical axis or the left-hand side of a visual representation, such as a stem-and-leaf plot or a histogram. The stem serves as the foundation upon which the data is organized and presented, providing a clear reference point for understanding the distribution and values of the data set.
Stemplot: A stemplot, also known as a stem-and-leaf plot, is a graphical display of data that shows the distribution of a set of numerical values. It presents the data in a compact and easily understandable format, allowing for quick analysis and identification of patterns within the data.
Symmetric: Symmetric refers to a characteristic of data or a graph where the values or shape on one side of a central point or axis are a mirror image of the values or shape on the other side. This symmetry indicates an equal or balanced distribution of the data around the central point.
Time Series Graph: A time series graph is a type of visual representation that displays data points over a period of time. It allows for the analysis of trends, patterns, and changes in a variable or multiple variables over a specific time frame.
Trend: A trend is a general direction or movement that a variable or data set exhibits over time. It represents the underlying pattern or tendency of a phenomenon, often used to identify and analyze long-term changes in data.
X-Axis: The x-axis is the horizontal reference line on a coordinate plane or graph that represents the independent variable. It is used to display data and plot linear equations, providing a visual representation of the relationship between two variables.
Y-Axis: The y-axis is the vertical axis on a graph or chart, which represents the dependent variable or the values being measured. It is used to display the magnitude or quantity of the data points plotted on the graph.
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