I'm comparing four different sets of data and I am drawing histograms using each of the sets of data. One of the sets of data goes up to 40 but most of the others don't go up that high. I have tried to keep all of my graphs with the same scale but I don' know whether I need to make sure that all of the graphs go up to the highest number or not to make it easier to compare? Someone please help!!
2007-03-26 06:08:22 · 3 answers · asked by x_Hayley_x 2 in Education & Reference ➔ Other - Education
It would be easiest to compare if they are on the same scale.
2007-03-26 06:16:04 · answer #1 · answered by Rafa-No1 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hey there,
Well, it really depends on what your trying to convey to the reader. Will these 4 histograms be on separate charts, or will all 4 be on the same?
If you want the reader to get a sense of how much greater the data that goes to 40 is, do them all on the same scale. That way, when you see the other three that AREN'T 40 max, they will be small in comparison, and give a more "real" sense of scale.
If, however, your just displaying data, and not so much comparing the 4, then I would just make data that goes to 40 on a Y axis that goes to like 45 or 50, and do the rest relatively, so 5 or 10 higher than their max. this will give you good histograms, but not so good for comparing to each other.
The ultimate choice is yours, but try and really think WHAT your telling the reader via your histograms, and that should help you decide to make them ALL have 40+ max on Y-axis, or each have individual scales.
Hope that helps!
Sha
2007-03-26 06:17:02 · answer #2 · answered by shahinnezam 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are using excel you can set-up dfifferent scales, so that the data is viewable in one graphic.
2007-03-26 06:22:04 · answer #3 · answered by cratone 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋