Area Graph: Recommended Style and Tips

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Use an Area Graph:

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• To show how values develop over time;

• If there is a considerably large differences between values;

• When the magnitude of the trend is to be communicated (rather than individual data values). To showcase this magnitude, the area between the line segments and the axes is highlighted by filling it with color.

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Recommended Style 

 

1. Color: Use contrasting colors to identify variables within an area chart. Each variable should have a distinct, contrasting color. See approved colors.

2. Base line: The base line of an area chart should always start at zero. 

3. Data: Bring the most important value to the bottom of the chart and use color to make it stand out.

4. Labeling: When appropriate, the X and Y axis should be clearly labeled. The Y axis label should be turned 90 degrees, reading from bottom to top (see chart below). The X axis should not be labeled at an angle. Font type: Calibri Light. Font size: 11.

5. Grid Lines: Grid lines should be used sparingly. When appropriate use either horizontal or vertical lines, never both.

6. Values: When possible, remove excessive zeros from values. 

7. Title: Begin your title with the portion mark classification, followed by Figure #: Title. Font type: Calibri Regular. Font size: 14.

8. Classification and Sourcing: Below the area chart, bottom left, list the overall classification of the chart and directly below the classification, list the source and source stream/s. Font type: Calibri Light Italic. Font size: 9.

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Tips

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• Don’t use an area graph if the data is close in value.

• Use contrasting colors to help the reader identify and visually separate data sets.