1. Choosing an Appropriate Graph
What’s the difference between:
Bar Graphs?
Line Graphs?
Circle Graphs?

2. Bar Graphs Bar graphs are often used to show various amounts
They are most useful when comparing multiple quantities
Examples of situations:
Comparing real vs. budgeted expenses
Showing how many students voted for which favorite cartoon character
Etc.

3. Bar Graphs
The following is an example of an appropriate use of a bar graph:

4. Line Graphs
Line graphs are used primarily to show how quantities change
The most common use involves a quantity that changes over time
Examples of situations:
The class average grade for each test of the semester (in chronological order)
Monthly income over the year
Etc.

5. Line Graphs
The following is an example of an appropriate use of a line graph:

6. Circle Graphs
Circle graphs are used to show how various parts combine to form a whole
They must ALWAYS have something that is considered the “whole”
Examples of situations:
Composition of boys and girls in a class
Composition of survey responses in a survey
Composition of budget categories in a budget
Can you identify the “whole” in each of the above situations?
Answer: “class”, “survey”, “budget”

7. Circle Graphs
The following is an example of an appropriate use of a circle graph:
Budget Category
Budgeted Amount
Housing
$824.00
Food
$242.00
Car
$158.00
Insurance
$75.00
Gasoline
$80.00