Learn More About Bar Graphs
A bar graph, also known as a bar chart or a bar diagram, is a graphical display of data using bars of different heights. The bar can run horizontally or vertically, but the most important thing to remember is the longer the bar, the greater its value. A bar graph consists of two
axes, the x-axis (which runs horizontally) and the y-axis (which runs vertically). One axis shows the specific categories being compared, and the other axis represents a measured value.
Three functions of a bar graph:
- Compare sets of data between different groups at a glance
- Show categories on one axis and a value in the other axis, with the goal of showing the relationship between the two axes
- Show big changes in data over time
Three main types of bar graphs:
- Vertical bar graph: The most common type of bar graph, in which data is displayed using vertical bars. The vertical bars have lengths that are proportional to quantities they represent. It is very useful when presenting a series of data over time.
- Horizontal bar graph: A graph whose dependent variable is shown on the horizontal scale. The length of each bar is proportional to the quantity to be presented and all bars go across from left to right.
- Stacked bar graph: Used to break down and compare parts of a whole. Each bar in the chart represents a whole, with segments representing different parts or categories of that whole. Different colors are used to illustrate the different categories in the bar.
There are many uses for bar graphs. Learning to read them will enable students to understand more complex series of information, and learning how to use them will allow students to categorize data more effectively.
