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Introduction
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A chart turns numbers into a visual pattern. It can make a comparison easier to understand, but the pattern depends on choices about scales, categories, time periods, and display.
To read a chart well, begin with what it measures. Then examine how the design affects your impression of the values.
A surprising shape is a reason to inspect the labels and data. It is not automatically proof of manipulation, and a technically accurate chart can still encourage an exaggerated interpretation.