In Statistics, a graphical representation defines the set of data in the form of a diagram or graph. It visually displays the data that help us to present the data in a meaningful way. The humans are generally able to infer meanings from the pictures than the text. The representation of data in graphical form exhibits the relationship between data, ideas, and information. Charts are used to understand the vast quantities of data. It outlines the relationship between the parts of data. The data is represented by symbols such as lines in the line chart, slices in pie charts and the bars in a bar chart. Graphs are used if the data reveals the relationship between the variables. The purpose of using visual representation is to express the value increase or decrease. It helps to show a report of how a specific situation was yesterday and how it is today. There are some rules to present the data effectively in the graphical format. 

• Suitable Title – Give the appropriate title that indicates the subject of representation.
• Measurement Unit – Mention the measurement units wherever it is necessary.
• Indexing the Parts – For better understanding, index the parts using different colours or shades, or lines
• Data Sources – Source of information should be added at the bottom of the graph, if necessary.
• Neat and straightforward – Construct a graph that everyone can understand. Choose the correct font, colours, lettering to attract the reader.

To interpret the frequency distribution of data, Statisticians use different methods such as Ogive or frequency cumulative graph, pie diagram, histogram etc. Apart from this, several kinds of charts are used to represent numerical data such as box and whisker plot, stem and leaf plot etc.

Even though the data is easier to understand, but it has some disadvantages also. Let’s discuss both the benefits and limitation of graphical representation.

Advantages

• It involves logical ideas and sequences.
• It highlights the theme of the report, and it is easily acceptable.
• Information can be compared with previous data. So it helps to make quick decisions using the pictorial representation of data.

Disadvantage

• A graphical representation is more expensive because it involves images, colours and paints.
• Since all the information is depicted in the visual representation, it should have a lack of secrecy.
• It is challenging to select a suitable graphical method to represent the data.

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