Data Visualization and Communication Flashcards

Which visualization is most appropriate for displaying hierarchical part-to-whole data with nested categories?

Answer: Treemap

A treemap uses nested rectangles sized by value to show hierarchical part-to-whole relationships.

What is the main advantage of small multiples?

Answer: They allow easy comparison across categories using a shared scale and layout

Small multiples repeat the same chart with consistent scales, enabling quick cross-category comparison.

Which is a key reason to choose a horizontal bar chart over vertical bars?

Answer: Long category labels are easier to read horizontally

Horizontal bars give room for long category labels without rotating or truncating text.

What does a choropleth map encode?

Answer: Values across geographic regions using color shading

A choropleth shades geographic areas by a data value, mapping quantities to regions.

When designing an interactive dashboard, what is a best practice for the default view?

Answer: Present the most important summary first with drill-down available

Showing key summaries upfront with optional drill-down balances clarity and depth.

Which mistake most commonly distorts the comparison of areas in bubble charts?

Answer: Sizing bubbles by diameter instead of area

Scaling bubble size by diameter rather than area exaggerates differences in the encoded value.

What is the most effective title for a business chart?

Answer: An action-oriented takeaway message stating the insight

A takeaway-style title states the insight directly, guiding viewers to the intended conclusion.