Chart guide
Bar Chart vs Line Chart
Choose between comparing categories and showing movement over time.
- Bars help rank discrete categories.
- Lines show continuity and change.
- Avoid line charts for unordered labels.
- Check labels and units after choosing.
Decision use
What this guide helps you decide
Choose between comparing categories and showing movement over time. Use it before choosing a chart type, writing a title, checking accessibility, or exporting a chart for a report.
Apply the idea
- Bars help rank discrete categories.
- Lines show continuity and change.
- Avoid line charts for unordered labels.
- Check labels and units after choosing.
Check before publishing
- Confirm the chart matches the reader task.
- Add units, source, and period when needed.
- Use a working tool to test the recommendation.
Common limit
- This guide explains a decision pattern, not a full data analysis workflow.
- Use the linked tools when you need preview, audit, or export.