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Essay / The Three Most Common Ways to View Data - 599
While accumulating data is essential for interpreting progress and moving forward on future projects, the ability to view the data is essential. Displaying data allows for better understanding of the information. The three most common methods for visually displaying data are to use pie charts, bar charts, and line graphs. Pie charts are best used to compare parts of a whole (data-driven decisions). The disadvantage of using a pie chart is that it will not be possible to see changes over time. If one is trying to best track changes over time, bar graphs and line graphs will be used. When minor changes exist, it is better to use line charts rather than bar charts. Line charts can also be used to compare changes over the same time period for multiple groups (How to). Conversely, when trying to measure changes over time, bar charts are more effective when the changes are greater (How to). Below is a table containing sample data sets and the appropriate frequency table that accompanies it. Describe the dataset Type of frequency table Type of visual display Possible audience Male and female employees...