What is best practice for data visualization to avoid misleading conclusions?

• A. Use appropriate scales, avoid truncation, show raw data when possible, label axes clearly, and avoid misleading aggregations.
• B. Use inconsistent scales to emphasize differences.
• C. Show only aggregated data.
• D. Label axes vaguely

Answer: (A)

Data visualization should present information honestly so readers can interpret it accurately. The best practice combines choosing scales that reflect the data truthfully, avoiding truncation or cutoffs that can exaggerate or hide differences, showing raw data when possible to convey the actual distribution, labeling axes clearly with units so readers know what’s being measured, and avoiding aggregations that distort what the data show. Together, these principles prevent common visual distortions and help viewers draw correct conclusions.

Using inconsistent scales can make differences look bigger or smaller than they are, which misleadingly shifts interpretation. Showing only aggregated data hides the underlying spread and variability, obscuring important details. Labeling axes vaguely leaves readers unsure about what’s being measured or the scale, inviting misreadings.