Create a Line Chart
Try Infogram for freeWhat is a Line Chart
A line chart or line graph is essentially a connection between various data points "markers" by line segments. A line graph has two axes: X-axis typically represent time periods and Y-axis has a quantitative value.
View more examples of line charts.
Infogram is a free online chart maker that offers the most widely used line chart types (line chart, area chart, and multiple axis line chart). Here’s how they differ:
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Line chart – Used to display events that occur over a continuous interval or time span. Example: Number of visitors per month.
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Area chart – A type of line charts where the area below the line is filled with a specific color. Example: Sales per year.
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Multiple axis line chart - A line chart displaying two variables with different units of measurement plotted on two separate Y-axes. Example: Temperature and Rainfall.
When to Use a Line Chart
A line chart is commonly used to show trends over time, often displaying relationships between two variables.
A typical line chart could show the number of visitors to a site or the stock price of a company changing over time.
How to Create a Line Chart
You can make a line chart in 5 easy steps:
- Join Infogram to make your own line chart.
- Select a line chart type (line, area, multiple axis).
- Upload or copy and paste your data.
- Customize labels, colors, and fonts.
- Download your line chart or embed on your website.
Best Practices for Creating Line Charts
Start the Y-axis at zero - Otherwise your viewer might draw inaccurate conclusions.
- Clearly label your axes - Make sure the viewer knows what they are comparing.
- Remove distracting chart elements - Grids, varying colors, and bulky legends can distract the viewer from quickly seeing the overall trend.
- Avoid comparing more than 5 lines - You don't want your chart to become cluttered or hard to read.
- Intervals should be in equal in size.
- Lines should only connect values in adjacent intervals. If data is missing, indicate it is missing.
