Learner resource

Chart Critique Checklist

Use this before accepting a chart into a report or portfolio.

Purpose

[ ] The chart answers a clear question.
[ ] The chart is needed; a table would not be clearer.
[ ] The chart supports the analysis instead of decorating the page.

Data

[ ] The data used in the chart is cleaned or clearly marked as raw.
[ ] The chart uses the correct grain.
[ ] Missing values, filters, or removed rows are explained when they affect the result.
[ ] The chart does not mix incompatible units.

Chart choice

[ ] A line chart is used for ordered time or sequence.
[ ] A bar chart is used for category comparison.
[ ] A scatter plot is used for relationship checks.
[ ] A histogram or density plot is used for distribution.
[ ] A box or violin plot is used for grouped distributions.
[ ] A heatmap is used only when the grid is readable.

Design

[ ] The title states what is plotted.
[ ] Axis labels are clear where needed.
[ ] Units are visible.
[ ] Legend labels are understandable.
[ ] Colors have a purpose.
[ ] Text is readable.
[ ] The chart is not crowded.
[ ] The aspect ratio does not distort the message.

Honesty

[ ] The axis scale is not misleading.
[ ] The chart does not imply causation from correlation.
[ ] Small sample sizes are not hidden.
[ ] Uncertainty or limits are mentioned when relevant.
[ ] Outliers are investigated before being removed.

Accessibility

[ ] Colors have enough contrast.
[ ] Important meaning is not carried by color alone.
[ ] The chart has a short written interpretation.
[ ] A table or text equivalent is available for important values.

Interpretation

Main takeaway:

Evidence:

Limitation:

Action or next question: