Representation of data
Also called: Graphical representation of data · Topic: Graphical Representation of Data and Thematic Maps · NCERT: Class 12, Ch 3 "Graphical Representation of Data"
Meaning
Representation of data means turning numbers into pictures such as graphs, diagrams, maps and charts. A table of figures is slow to read. A picture shows the pattern at a glance and stays in memory longer. The method must suit the kind of data. A line graph suits change over time, a bar diagram suits comparing amounts, a dot map suits spread-out counts and a choropleth map (a map that shades each area by its value) suits density. A good diagram also needs a suitable scale. It needs a title naming the area, subject and year, and a legend, which is a key that explains the colours and symbols. A map also needs a north arrow.
Example
NCERT points to the maps of Nagpur district in Maharashtra. If the same facts were written as tables or text, they would lose their visual impact and take longer to read. In NCERT's words, "a picture is equivalent to thousands of words."
Don't confuse with
- Thematic map: this is only one form of data representation. It shows how a theme varies from place to place on a base map. Graphs and diagrams compare values but do not show this regional pattern.