Database Reference
In-Depth Information
5. Avoid smoothing and 3-D. A smoothing feature added to your line gives
the impression of data points that are not actually there. A smoothing
feature added to your line gives the impression of data points that are not
actually there (Figure 5-29). Similarly, glossy 3-D effects are a visual that
was impressive in 1999 but contributes no value to your chart.
BAD
GOOD
Unit Sales by Month
Unit Sales by Month
80
80
60
60
40
40
20
20
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct
FigureĀ 5-29: Smoothing of lines is seldom useful.
6. Careful use of gradients. Use flat colors or a bare minimum gradient.
Ensure that the bar endpoint is visible. When the gradient fades toward
the endpoint, it reduces the ability to clearly see the length of the bar, as
shown in Figure 5-30.
BAD
GOOD
Unit Sales by Fruit
Unit Sales by Fruit
80
80
60
60
40
40
20
20
Apples
Pears
Oranges
Blue-
berries
Bananas
Apples
Pears
Oranges
Blue-
berries
Bananas
FigureĀ 5-30: Bars should not fade out toward their endpoint.
 
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