Lecture Notes on Visualization Methods

What is Data Visualization?

Simple representation of raw data using visual elements to get an overview of the data and identify trends and patterns

What is Information Visualization?

Dealing with large-scale, complicated datasets (numerical or non-numerical) to improve viewer's comprehension, reinforce cognition, and help derive insights.

What is Concept Visualization?

Visual representation of ideas, concepts and their relationships to show logical connections between different elements

What is Metaphor Visualization?

Using pictorial analogies and simple templates to convey complex insights, making abstract concepts concrete and understandable.

What is a Line Chart best used for?

Visualizing trends in data over time, where data points are ordered by x-axis values and connected by straight line segments.

What is an Area Chart and when should it be used?

Like a line chart but with the area below the line colored to indicate volume. Best for representing cumulative totals over time.

What is a Bar Chart used for?

Comparing different categories using vertical or horizontal bars with heights/lengths proportional to the value of each category.

When should Pie Charts be used, and what's their limitation

Used to show part-to-whole relationships, but should be limited to few categories as they become ineffective with too many segments.

What is a Flow Chart?

A diagram representing a workflow or process, providing a step-by-step approach to solve a task or visualize a procedure.

What is a Venn Diagram and what does it show?

A collection of overlapping circles (sets) that shows logical relationships between different sets, clearly visualizing overlaps and differences.

What is a Gantt Chart used for?

Project planning and management, showing tasks, their durations, and dependencies on a timeline

What are two critical factors to consider when choosing a visualization method?

The type and structure of your data, and 2) The specific insights you want your audience to gain.