Line chart

A graph that connects plotted data points with line segments to show how values change across an ordered sequence, often time.

Cartesian coordinate system: A coordinate system that locates points using signed distances along perpendicular axes. Its horizontal and vertical coordinates provide the framework for plotting each data point.
Linear interpolation: An estimation method that joins known values with straight-line segments. A standard line chart visually uses straight segments between adjacent observations.
Statistical process control: A quality-management method that monitors process variation using statistical data over time. Control charts use plotted sequences to distinguish routine variation from signals requiring investigation.
Scatter plot: A graph that displays paired numerical observations as individual points on coordinate axes. Unlike a line chart, it does not automatically connect points or imply an ordered path.
Data visualization: The graphical representation of data to support exploration, analysis, and communication. Line charts are a familiar visual form whose design choices affect interpretation.
Time series: A sequence of observations recorded at successive times. Time is a common ordered horizontal variable for line charts.
Categorical data: Data whose values belong to distinct groups rather than a numerical continuum. Connecting categories can imply an ordering or continuity that the data may not possess.
Stock chart: A financial chart showing a security’s price or trading information over time. Price histories commonly use line charts to summarize closing values across trading sessions.
Bar chart: A graph that represents values with rectangular bars whose lengths are proportional to the values. Bars emphasize comparison among discrete categories rather than continuity between successive observations.
Chartjunk: Decorative or distracting visual elements that add little information to a chart. Heavy styling can compete with the trajectory and obscure the plotted evidence.

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