Line graphs, bar charts, population pyramids and histograms
Graphs are a useful way to show numerical data. There are a variety of graphs that can help highlight patterns and be used to reach conclusions in geography.
Exploring a range of graphs and their uses
Data shown on graphs
Graphs can be used to summarise data, highlight patterns, and help reach conclusions. Choosing the right graph is very important when displaying data in geography. You must be able to extract and interpret information from them.
Line graphs
Line graphs show how data changes over time or space. The line graph above displays the changes in world population growth over time. The The line that runs along the bottom of a graph. shows time or distance. When interpreting a line graph, you should include:
- a trend or change over time
- the pattern of the line showing an increase or decrease
- the rate of change shown by the steepness of the line
Multiple line graphs
Multiple line graphs show more than one line, making it easier to compare different data sets on the same graph.
This graph has three lines showing three different data sets on the same graph. The general trends are an increase in the global demand for energy and renewable energy, and a decrease in the supply of fossil fuels between the year 2000 and 2050.
