Selecting the proper measurement interval
Selecting the appropriate measurement interval is crucial when creating a line chart. The measurement interval, or bin size, should be sufficiently broad and short,
as this can result in hiding the helpful signal or revealing only noise. It's best to test out different intervals or rely on domain knowledge to make an informed decision.
Using multiple lines, one for a fine-grained interval and another for the overall trend can also be useful. This can involve averaging over a rolling window to obtain a clearer picture of the data trend.
Do not overload it with too many lines
To prevent clutter and make the line chart easily interpretable, limiting the number of lines plotted is crucial. It's recommended to keep the number of lines to five or fewer. Too many lines on a chart make reading and understanding the data trends difficult.
But if the lines are distinct and separated, it's possible to include more lines while maintaining the chart's readability.
Use colors and markers effectively
Using colors and markers effectively is key to creating a visually appealing and informative line chart. Colors can differentiate between multiple lines or data sets,
making it easier for viewers to identify and track specific trends. Markers can be utilized to draw attention to particular data points or trends, emphasizing their
significance in the overall pattern.
It is essential to select appropriate colors and markers that complement each other and are easily distinguishable, ensuring that the chart remains straightforward and
easy to interpret.