ballroom

Reading Graphics

Graphics are rarely alike in form or function. However, some techniques that can be applied will enable your reading of graphics a little easier.

Read the title or cation to get the overall picture of what is shown here.
Read the labels or column headings to get a better idea of what data is being used in the chart.
Review the data that accompanies the chart.
Read text before or after the chart as well. Frequently the author of the document will summarize or give clues as to where the data was collected and under what conditions. There also may be some ideas that the author is trying to communicate with this graphic.
Read any footnotes or key to the sections of the graphic as well.