Three Steps to a Successful Chart:

1. Select the data (use filter or sort, if needed)
2. Click the chart wizard button and follow the directions
   Select an appropriate chart type that will display the data effectively - read information below.
   
3. Label all chart parts adequately and appropriately.
4. Edit colors or labels as needed.

Excel Chart Types

	Pie Use this chart type to show the relationship among parts of a whole. Pie Charts use only one line (row or column) of data; Most other chart types use multi-lines
	Bar Use this chart type to compare values at a given point in time.
	Column Similar to the bar chart; use this chart type to emphasize the difference between items.
	Line Use this chart type to emphasize trends and the change of values over time.
	Scatter Similar to a line chart; use this chart type to emphasize the difference between two sets of values.
	Area Similar to the line chart; use this chart type to emphasize the amount of change in values over time.
images: Microsoft Office Assistance - Available chart types descriptions edited from Sams Teach Yourself Microsoft Excel 2000 in 10 Minutes

Edward Tufte's Principles of Information Design:

1. Compared to what? (Make comparisons)
2. Show the smallest effective difference.
3. Show cause and effect. (Create context)
4. Integrate words, numbers and images.
5. Effectiveness of visual design depends upon the quality, relevance and integrity of the content.

Example Charts

Below are four charts created using the same data. Consider which chart makes the information the clearest.

In general, you should avoid pie charts. It is difficult to make reliable visual comparisons based on them. Tilting the pie chart completely obscures any visual comparison.

The angled bar chart is also difficult to use for quick visual comparison. IT is the simple bar chart that provides data clarity and allows easy comparisons.

Active Duty examples by Gary Klass; Department of Politic and Government, Illinois State University