Table 4.4 Analyzing Graphics
Guidelines for reading tables and charts actively and critically
  1. Preview the table or chart. Read the title and caption (if any) and look quickly at the table or chart. What is it supposed to show?
  1. Look at the headings (of tables/charts), labels (of figures), and legends (of charts/figures) to determine how the data are organized. The headings and labels should indicate the variables. The legend (or guide to the colors, symbols, terms, or other information) should show what is being analyzed. A scale shows how measurements should be read.
  1. Read the caption (if any) and any discussion of the graphic in the text, and make connections. Does the text explain why the graphic was included or what it is intended to show? (If not, make your own connections between the text and graphic.) To understand a complicated graphic, you may need to study the text and graphic carefully several times. Read the whole explanation in the text before looking back at the graphic.
  1. Study the data to try to identify trends or patterns. Note unexpected changes (such as sudden increases or decreases in amounts), surprising statistics, or unexplained variations. Summarize any trends and note any patterns you find. Writing will crystallize the idea in your mind, and your notes will be useful for review.
  1. Check the source of the data. Are the data from a reliable source? Are they up to date?