How To Make a Graph (The Right Way)

Why Are Graphs/Charts Important?

• Graphs and charts help display information clearly and accurately…very useful for science!

• They make it easy for others to read your data and to make it presentable.

How Do I Make A Good Graph?• Step 1- Always give a

graph or table a title:– “Dependence of

(dependent variable) on your (independent variable)”

– Dependant Variable- The variable that depends on the other

– Independent Variable- The variable that does not depend on the other

How Do I Make A Good Graph?

• Step 2- Make sure to have the correct axis:– X-axis of your graph is

the independent variable

– Y-axis is the dependent variable

• Step 3 – Always label X and Y axis and give units: • And always be sure to

label correctly!

How Do I Make A Good Graph?• Step 4 – Always make a line

graph, and always go from low to high:– Do not make bar graphs

for science.

– Line graphs show trends and influences of variables.

• Step 5 – Do not connect the dots!:• If you make a mistake, its

easier to fix.

How Do I Make A Good Graph?

• Step 6 – Last but not least, keep your graph clean!

– Others may look at your graph; it’s harder to read if it is sloppy or unclear.