Datylon Chart Library - Area Chart Resource Page

Area chart

DATYLON > CHART LIBRARY > AREA CHART

What is an area chart?

 
Alternative name: Area graph
 

An area chart, just like a line chart, is used to visualize data over time. Visually, the main difference is that in the area chart, the space under the line is filled with color. The area chart is used instead of a line chart in case one needs more notable visuals. Also, area charts are more useful than line charts to visualize the summation or difference between groups in the chart. The space filled under or between the lines makes it cognitively easier to understand the relationship.

The X-axis, or independent variable, is mostly used to show time intervals, while the Y-axis, or dependent variable, shows the numerical variable. Area charts are handy for indicating trends. When using area charts in your data visualization it’s important to remember that the Y-axis should start from (or include) a zero. Otherwise, the chart perception might be distorted.

The area chart is one of the oldest chart types. It was popularized by William Playfair, who used this type of chart in his 1786 book “The Commercial and Political Atlas”.

Variations of area charts

The charts below are variations of an area chart. To learn how to make them with Datylon, check out the area chart user documentation in the Datylon Help Center.
Datylon chart library: use a stacked area chart as a variation of an area chart
Datylon chart library: use a stacked area chart as a variation of an area chart

Stacked area chart

A stacked area chart is effectively used to visualize multiple data series. Areas are stacked on top of each other allowing you to present a cumulative effect, showing the sum of the initial values.

Datylon chart library: use a density plot as a variation of an area chart
Datylon chart library: use a density plot as a variation of an area chart

Density plot

Similar to area charts in appearance but functionally akin to histograms. Density plots depict numerical variable distributions, with each point indicating item counts within specific data ranges.

Datylon chart library: use a streamgraph as a variation of an area chart
Datylon chart library: use a streamgraph as a variation of an area chart

Stream graph

A stream graph derives from a stacked area chart, from which it differs by making use of a central baseline rather than a fixed axis. It creates a stream-like feel which makes it one of the most elegant charts.

Alternatives to an area chart

Substitute your area chart with the charts below when you want a visual alternative with filled areas under the data points or a functional alternative that allows tracing data over time.
Datylon chart library: use a line chart as an alternative for an area chart
Datylon chart library: use a line chart as an alternative for an area chart

Line chart

Both area and line charts show the changes of a variable over time. Line charts can be a good alternative for area charts if you need a cleaner look without the color fill under the line.

Datylon chart library: use a bar chart as an alternative for an area chart
Datylon chart library: use a bar chart as an alternative for an area chart

Bar chart

If a dataset for the area chart consists of a small number of values, it makes sense to use a bar chart instead. A bar chart allows us to see more precisely every plotted value.

Datylon chart library: use a histogram as an alternative for an area chart
Datylon chart library: use a histogram as an alternative for an area chart

Histogram

If you plan on presenting the distribution of a few numerical values, instead of using a density plot you can also go for another interesting alternative: a histogram.

Pro tips for designing an area chart

Learn how to improve the readability and visual appeal of your area chart.
You can label every series in your area chart directly or via a legend, but direct labeling is preferred.

Labeling

You can label every series in your area chart directly or via a legend. In general, direct labeling is preferred. Direct labeling includes placing the names of the categories right next to the corresponding area. This is more beneficial as the viewer does not have to switch its view between the chart and the legend to learn which areas correspond to which category. Moreover, it makes it easier to read the chart by color-blind people or readers of the chart printed in greyscale. To make it even easier for your viewer, color-code the label with the same color as the corresponding area. In Datylon chart maker you can use the color link option to make the colors of the Direct Labels the same as the corresponding areas.

Draw attention to the most important categories in your area chart by highlighting with one color.

Highlighting

Our brain is programmed to notice deviations instantly. So to draw attention to the most important categories of the area chart, a good solution is to highlight these areas and color all the other areas in a pale grayscale palette. It’s also better to place the highlighted category at the bottom, so it’s easier to interpret it. In general, applying changes in size, movement, or color will make highlighting a specific area easier. And it will catch the reader’s eye immediately.

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Add an explanation of what changes the chart is representing by adding annotations.

Annotations

As area charts are mostly used for showing trends, there’s no need to add labels for every data point. But at the same time, a reader needs an explanation of what changes the chart is representing. In this case, text annotation for every major direction change is the best solution for highlighting certain events.

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Sometimes you can add an overlaid series with decreased opacity.

Overlaid series

When multiple series need to be shown but the stacked type isn’t suitable, an overlaid series with decreased opacity might be the right choice. It allows you to show all of the series starting from the same point. The intensity of overlaps of different series might also work as a separate visual clue.

Create your own area chart

Join Datylon for free and get started online or download our Datylon for Illustrator plug-in with a 14-day trial. Connect with a Datylon expert for a demo session.

Area chart examples & inspiration

Scroll and click on the images below to find inspiration samples of area charts. With your Datylon account, you can use these designs, customize them and update them with new data. Or start designing your very own area chart!

Discover more charts in our Chart Library

Learn more about the different types of charts and graphs you can design with Datylon. Discover other resource pages in our Datylon Chart Library.