• Unit 3: Crafting Visualizations

    While data scientists receive training in mathematics and computer science, their audiences often do not. Results usually need to be communicated to managers, customers, or coworkers, but these audiences sometimes lack the requisite training to understand the statistical information given to them. Data visualizations are useful in simplifying and summarizing the results of data analyses. This unit will cover the skills you need to convey your message.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 3 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • identify basic types of charts;
      • select the proper chart that should be used to represent a given data set;
      • construct charts in Google Sheets; and
      • present data to a non-technical audience in an ethical manner.

    • 3.1: Types of Charts

      • Displaying Quantitative Data Page

        This video demonstrates some of the more commonly-used charts and explains how to use them. Recall the different data types we discussed in Unit 2 and note how each type of data in the video is charted.

      • Types of Charts Book

        These slides walk through a wide variety of charting options at your disposal. Again, note which charts are associated with each data type.

    • 3.2: Charting in Google Sheets

      • Charting in Google Sheets Page

        This video discusses how to construct various charts in Google Sheets, a free software package that can be used for data visualization. Recall the different types of data we discussed in Unit 2. As you watch, try to identify the type of each data point. Also, note which charts are used with each type of data.

      • Example of Visualization in Google Sheets Page

        This video provides an example of a simple visualization. Watch as a data scientist turns a sketch and numbers from a notebook into a digital visualization, and note how much quicker the graphic conveys the information than the raw data.

    • 3.3: Charting Techniques

      • Presenting Charts Page

        Engineers are guided by the KISS principle: Keep It Simple, Silly! This video gives tips for ensuring that your charts are understandable and to the point.

      • Making Data Engaging Page

        Data visualization should tell a story. Watch how this data scientist makes his charts interactive and engaging to involve his audience and reach them better.

      • Charting Dos and Don'ts Book

        Whether on purpose or not, a statistician can mislead an audience with a chart. This article explains some chart design principles and common mistakes novice data analysts make. Think about the statistical charts you have seen on billboards, in the news, and in research studies. Using these principles as a guide, would you classify any of those charts as misleading?

    • Unit 3 Assessment

      • Unit 3 Assessment Quiz
        Receive a grade

        Take this assessment to see how well you understood this unit.

        • This assessment does not count towards your grade. It is just for practice!
        • You will see the correct answers when you submit your answers. Use this to help you study for the final exam!
        • You can take this assessment as many times as you want, whenever you want.