Area Chart

An area chart is a type of graph that displays quantitative data using a line that connects data points, with the area between the line and the x-axis filled with color or shading. It is similar to a line chart but with the area below the line filled in.

• Showing trends over time
• Visualizing part-to-whole relationships
• Comparing multiple data series
• Illustrating cumulative totals
• Highlighting the magnitude of changes

• Simple Area Charts: Show a single data series
• Multiple Area Charts: Compare multiple data series
• Stacked Area Charts: Show composition and totals
• 100% Stacked Area Charts: Display percentage contributions

When interpreting an area chart, consider the following:

• Observe the overall trend and shape of the area
• Compare the relative sizes of areas between different series
• In stacked area charts, look at both individual contributions and totals
• Be cautious of scale distortions, especially with multiple series
• Consider the baseline (usually zero) and its impact on perception