This job aid will provide guidance on reading data in a visual form. The process below can help you avoid being overwhelmed; it can also help you avoid jumping to the wrong interpretation.
- Understand the set-up
Read the title and any guide to reading the visualization provided by the creator. What is the subject? What is being displayed? Where does the data come from?
Helpful Note:
Most dashboards (collection of charts) at the university have an info icon in the upper right corner. Clicking on the info icon is a good place to start.
- Figure out what is being measured. Look for axes labels, units, and legends. What is being measured? How is it being represented? Do the units and scale of the axes make sense? Are the axes shifted or manipulated in any way?
- Is the chart creator trying to draw attention to anything? Creators may use color, highlights, symbols, or bold text to draw attention.
- Describe patterns in the data.
- What pattern or trend is being displayed? Is there any clear average? Are there notable exceptions?
- Interpret the data.
- Try to summarize or restate the message of the visualization in your own words.
- You may also try answering questions such as, “are there alternative explanations for patterns in the data?” or “how do the results fit into the larger picture?”
If you’re still unsure, use the contact email on the dashboard to ask questions.