How can you use data visualizations to support scientific hypotheses?

1 Selecting the right type of visualization

The first step to use data visualizations to support scientific hypotheses is to choose the most appropriate type of visualization for your data and your research question. There are many types of data visualizations, such as charts, graphs, maps, diagrams, and dashboards, and each one has its own strengths and limitations. For example, if you want to show the relationship between two variables, you might use a scatter plot or a line graph. If you want to show the distribution of a variable, you might use a histogram or a box plot. If you want to show the composition of a variable, you might use a pie chart or a stacked bar chart. The key is to select the type of visualization that best suits your data and your hypothesis.

3 Interpreting the visualization

The third step to use data visualizations to support scientific hypotheses is to interpret the visualization in a critical and analytical way. This means that you should look for patterns, trends, outliers, and anomalies in your data, and compare them with your hypothesis and other sources of evidence. You should also consider the limitations and uncertainties of your data, such as the sample size, the measurement error, the missing values, and the confounding factors. You should not jump to conclusions or make causal claims based on your visualization alone, but rather use it as a tool to generate insights and test your hypothesis.

4 Presenting the visualization

The fourth and final step to use data visualizations to support scientific hypotheses is to present the visualization in a compelling and persuasive way. This means that you should tailor your visualization to your audience, your purpose, and your context. You should also provide a clear and concise title, a brief introduction, a clear explanation of your data and your hypothesis, and a summary of your main findings and implications. You should also acknowledge the sources of your data, the methods of your analysis, and the limitations of your visualization. Your goal is to convey your message and your evidence in a way that engages and convinces your audience.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?