Data Visualization

Principles and best practices for effective data visualization.

Core Principles

Tufte's Foundations

Data-Ink Ratio: Maximize ink used for actual data

• Remove unnecessary gridlines, borders, backgrounds
• Eliminate 3D effects, shadows, decorative elements
• Every visual element must justify its existence

Lie Factor: Graphical representation must match data

• Lie Factor = Size of Effect in Graphic / Size of Effect in Data
• Ideal = 1. Substantial distortion when >1.05 or <0.95
• Avoid: non-zero baselines, inconsistent scales, 3D distortion

Chart Junk: Remove non-data ink and redundant data-ink