Bubble Chart

Bubble charts expand scatter charts by adding a third variable represented by bubble size.

Best for:

a) Multi-variable analysis

b) Visualising proportions within relationships

c) Market analysis

Example:

A Business Analyst might compare a company’s sales, profit, and market share.

Area Chart

Area charts are almost similar to line charts but fill the area under the line, highlighting magnitude over time.

Best for:

a) Showing cumulative totals

b) Comparing multiple trends

c) Emphasising volume

Example:

A gym chain might use an area chart to track new memberships, cancellations, and net active members across months. This provides insights into both growth and retention performance.

Radar Chart

Radar charts (spider charts) plot values on multiple axes starting from the same centre point.

Best for:

a) Performance analysis

b) Skill comparison

c) Multi-dimensional data

Example:

An HR Manager might use a radar chart to compare employee skill ratings.

Combo Chart

Definition:

Combo charts combine two chart types (e.g., column and line) to compare datasets with different scales.

Best for:

a) Comparing two variables

b) Showing values and trends

c) Dual-axis analysis

Example:

A company might show revenue as columns and profit margin as a line on the same chart.

Histogram

Histograms group data into bins (ranges) to show frequency distribution.

Best for:

a) Analysing distributions

b) Showing data spread

c) Statistical insights

Example:

A teacher might use a histogram to show the distribution of student exam scores.

Waterfall Chart

Waterfall charts show how an initial value increases or decreases through a series of steps to reach a final total.

Best for:

a) Financial breakdowns

b) Showing cumulative impact

c) Explaining step-by-step changes

Example:

A finance team might use a Waterfall chart to explain how revenue turns into net profit after costs and taxes.