Representing Data Graphically: Learn It 4

Dot Plots

Dot plots are a straightforward yet effective method for depicting frequencies in a data set. They map individual data points as dots along a single axis, making it easier to visualize and count occurrences of each value. Let’s consider how this simplicity aids in data analysis, particularly with smaller data sets.

dot plot

Dot plots display how many individual observations there are of each value observed, so each observation in the data set appears as its own dot on the graph.

A large number of observations could overwhelm the display so dot plots work well when the data set is small.
Create a dot plot of the data set “Oscars Age” using the Describing and Exploring Quantitative Data tool. Steps to create a dot plot:

STEP 1: Select “Single Group”.

STEP 2: Select the Data Set “Oscars: Age”.

STEP 3: Under “Choose Type of Plot”, select “Dotplot”.

STEP 4: Choose a “Dotsize” or “[latex]1[/latex]“, and a “Binwidth” of “[latex]1[/latex]“.


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