Graphs can be manipulated to reflect rising or declining trends when the data they represent are not significant. Looking at the graph below, you may think there has been a significant rise in unemployment but look closer.
Figure 8.1 Unemployment graph for the north. From Graham, A. (2017). Statistical graphs. In teach yourself: basic mathematics: an introduction. Hodder & Stoughton. Retrieved September 20, 2023, from https://search.credoreference.com/articles/Qm9va0FydGljbGU6NDgzNTM5OQ==
- The title is vague.
- Neither axis is labeled
- The distance between data points on the Y-axis is not given
- The Y-axis does not show any scale.
The graph below accurately reflects the annual change in the percentage of unemployment rates in the north of England from 2002 to 2009.
Graph showing unemployment rates (%) for the north of England (2003 to 2008). The range reflects a slight difference in rates over time.
Figure 8.10 Line graph showing unemployment rates (%) for the north of England (2003 to 2008). Adapted from Graham, A. (2017). Statistical graphs. In teach yourself: basic mathematics: an introduction. Hodder & Stoughton. Retrieved September 20, 2023, from https://search.credoreference.com/articles/Qm9va0FydGljbGU6NDgzNTM5OQ==
- The figure caption is specific.
- Both axes are labeled
- The scale is provided and starts at zero.
- The range reflects the data accurately.
So, what should you check to make sure you are accurately evaluating statistical graphs? Make sure to check for:
- Ranges that show a sharp incline or decline
- Figure captions
- Axis titles
- Scale
- Uniform distance between data points
For additional information evaluation tips, consult the library’s tip sheets:
- Sift Method
A tool you can use to evaluate information in a digital world. SIFT stands for – stop, investigate the source, find additional coverage, trace to the original. - What is CRAAPO? A Guide to Evaluating Resources
Evaluating web resources by currency, relevancy, authority, accuracy, purpose, and objectivity.
If you still have questions you can chat in real-time with a librarian here.