Different types of graphs can be used to effectively explain different types of scientific information.
Before choosing a graphing technique, one must first consider exactly what it is that is important to communicate. Do you want to show the distinction between and among site classes or groups? Do you want to consolidate the information from many samples to show the status of stream conditions? Do you want to show trends that may indicate improvement, degradation, or no change? Certain types of graphs lend themselves particularly well to depicting specific types of information or relationships, and thus the choice of graphic style should be carefully thought out.
Some of the more useful graphical techniques are listed at left; click on each button in the graphic for further information and examples.
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