storytelling with data: quick reference guide

choose the right type of display

When highlighting a number of two, simple text is best
pie charts cautiously!
y
Use p
Use line charts to show continuous data; bar charts for categorical data
Let the relationship you want to show guide the type of chart you choose

eliminate clutter

2
draw attention where you want it
3
tell a visual story
4
practice
makes perfect
p
p
5

Use contrast strategically dont let your message get lost in the clutter!
Leverage Gestalt principles to cut that which has no informative value

Understand the power of preattentive attributes (color, size) and use selectively to
(1) direct your audiences attention and (2) provide a visual hierarchy of information

Text is your friend: use it to title/label, explain, and tell a story

Seek feedback from colleagues; iterate for success

cole nussbaumer | www.storytellingwithdata.com

storytelling with data: quick reference guide

Preattentive attributes

Gestalt principles

The path to great design

Additional resources
coles
l favorite
f
it data
d t viz
i books:
b k
Show Me the Numbers (Few)
Information Visualization (Ware)
WSJ Guide to Information Graphics (Wong)
The Visual Display of Quantitative Information (Tufte)

Find more resources at www.storytellingwithdata.com

Follow cole on Twitter at storywithdata
cole nussbaumer | www.storytellingwithdata.com