types of Presentation aids 14.2 297
By watching news programs, hearing reports, and seeing presentations, you
have undoubtedly seen the four most common types of graphs: bar graphs, pie
graphs, line graphs, and picture graphs.
• Bar graphs. A bar graph consists of flat areas—bars—of various lengths
to represent information. The bar graph in Figure 14.2 clearly shows the
growth rates in the number of smartphone users. It would be more difficult
to illustrate your point with words and numbers alone. A graph helps your
listeners quickly see comparisons.
• Pie graphs. A pie graph shows the individual shares of a whole. The pie
graph in Figure 14.3 shows the top Internet search providers. Pie graphs are
especially useful in helping your listeners to see quickly how data are dis-
tributed in a given category or area.
• Line graphs. Line graphs show relationships between two or more variables.
Like bar graphs, line graphs organize statistical data to show overall trends
(Figure 14.4). A line graph can cover a greater span of time or numbers than
a bar graph can without looking cluttered or confusing. As with other types
of presentation aids, a simple line graph communicates better than a clut-
tered one.
• Picture graphs. In place of either a line graph or a bar graph, you can use
pictures, or symbols, to supplement the data you are summarizing (Figure
14.5). A picture graph looks somewhat less formal and less intimidating than
other kinds of graphs. One of the advantages of picture graphs is that they
use few words or labels, which makes them easier for your audience to read.
There are online sources that can help you create your own picture graphs.2009App customer base (millions)
2010 2011 2012 2013700800900500300100
01000600400200Figure 14.2 Bar graphs can help make statistical information clearly and
immediately visible to your audience.
source: Data from CBs news, “number of smartphone Users tops 1 Billion” (2013) http://www
.cbsnews.cm/8301-205_165-57534583/study-number-of-smartphone-users-tops-1-billionM14_BEEB3981_05_SE_C14_289-314.indd 297 11/18/14 11:27 AM