A graph is a visual representation of the relationship among different numbers, measurements, or quantities. Graphs are especially useful when presenting a great deal of statistical evidence. Some common types of graphs are line graphs, bar graphs, and pie charts.

Line Graphs. A line graph uses lines plotted on vertical and horizontal axes to show relationships between two elements. For example, you could use a line graph to show the various elevations of the Ironman race or the profits that a company made over a ten-year period.

Bar Graphs. A bar graph consists of parallel bars of varying height or length that compare several pieces of information. For instance, you could use a bar graph to compare the weight loss of three categories of triathletes in a series of races.

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Pie Charts. A pie chart (also known as a circle graph) is used to show how percentages and proportions relate to one another and add up to a whole. A pie chart resembles a pie that has been divided up into slices, with each slice representing a percentage of the total sum. You could use a pie chart to show the percentages of different types of foods in a recommended diet for triathletes or the money that your town spent in a given year on various services, such as education or road repair.