How Charts Work: Understand and explain data with confidence

Charts, graphs, and tables are essential business tools, but too often they present information poorly. This book will help you feel confident understanding different types of charts, graphs, and tables, recognize the true story behind the data, know the principles and rules of how best to represent information, and design visuals that people engage with, understand, and act upon. Don't value design over information; present data persuasively.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2022
Publisher: Pearson Education Limited

Charts, graphs, and tables are indispensable tools in business, yet they often fail to effectively convey information. This comprehensive book aims to empower you with the knowledge and skills to interpret and create visually appealing charts, graphs, and tables that effectively communicate data.

Confidence in Understanding Different Types of Charts, Graphs, and Tables:

This book will equip you with a solid foundation in understanding the various types of charts, graphs, and tables available, enabling you to read and interpret them with ease. You will gain a deep appreciation for the nuances and purposes of each visual representation, allowing you to make informed decisions based on the data presented.

Recognizing the True Story Behind the Data and What the Information Truly Reveals:

Charts, graphs, and tables are not mere tools for presenting data; they are powerful storytelling devices. This book will help you uncover the hidden narratives behind the numbers, enabling you to interpret the information in its entirety. You will learn to identify patterns, trends, and anomalies that may otherwise go unnoticed, allowing you to make data-driven decisions that drive business success.

Understanding the Principles and Rules of Effective Information Representation:

Effective information representation is key to creating visually appealing and meaningful charts, graphs, and tables. This book will delve into the principles and rules that govern the best practices in visual communication. You will learn how to select appropriate chart types, colors, fonts, and layout techniques to enhance the clarity and impact of your visuals. By applying these principles, you will be able to create your own information-driven (and beautiful) visuals that captivate your audience.

Design Visuals That Engage, Understand, and Motivate Action:

Design is not just about aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of charts, graphs, and tables. This book will teach you how to design visuals that engage, understand, and motivate action. You will learn about visual hierarchy, typography, color theory, and layout principles to create visuals that are not only visually appealing but also communicate your message effectively. By designing visuals that resonate with your audience, you can persuade them to take the desired action.

Don't Prioritize Design Over Information:

While design is important, it should never overshadow the significance of information. This book emphasizes the balance between design and information, teaching you how to present data persuasively. You will learn how to choose the right visual representation, use effective storytelling techniques, and incorporate supporting evidence to reinforce your message. By prioritizing both design and information, you can create charts, graphs, and tables that are not only visually appealing but also highly informative.

Find the FT Chart Doctor's Columns Here:

To further enhance your understanding and mastery of charts, graphs, and tables, you can access the FT Chart Doctor's columns on the Financial Times website. These columns provide valuable insights, tips, and examples of effective charting techniques. By following the advice and examples provided by the FT Chart Doctor, you can take your charting skills to the next level.

In conclusion, Charts, Graphs, and Tables: How They Work is a comprehensive guide that empowers you to unlock the full potential of data visualisation. By gaining confidence in understanding different types of charts, graphs, and tables, recognising the true story behind the data, understanding the principles and rules of effective information representation, designing visuals that engage, understand, and motivate action, and prioritizing design over information, you can create charts, graphs, and tables that effectively communicate data and drive business success. So, whether you are a business professional, data analyst, or simply someone who wants to enhance their visual communication skills, this book is a must-read.

ISBN-13: 9781292342795