Side-by-side column graphs
Theory
A side-by-side column graph draws two columns per category, one for each group. The legend names the colours, so you can compare the two groups within a category or follow one group across the categories.
A side-by-side column graph draws two columns for each category, one for each group.
Each category has a pair of columns standing next to each other, so the two groups can be compared at once.
The legend says which colour is which group.
Read a value the same way as any column graph: across from the top of the chosen column to the scale.
A pair of columns lets you compare two ways.
| Round | Team A | Team B |
|---|---|---|
| Rd 1 | 8 | 10 |
| Rd 2 | 12 | 7 |
| Rd 3 | 6 | 13 |
| Rd 4 | 10 | 4 |
How to read a side-by-side column graph
- Check the legend to see which colour is which group.
- Find the category, then the column for the group you want.
- Read its height across to the scale.
- Compare within a pair, or the same colour across the categories.
Use the legend to pick Team A's column.
| Team A, Rd 2 | \(=\) | \(12\) |
Subtract the smaller from the larger.
| \(13-6\) | \(=\) | \(7\) |
Team B, by \(7\).
Pick Team A's tallest column.
| \(12>10>8>6\) | Round 2 |
Add Team B's four columns.
| \(10+7+13+4\) | \(=\) | \(34\) |
Common pitfalls
Frequently asked questions
What is a side-by-side column graph?
A column graph that draws two columns for each category, one per group, so the two groups can be compared at every category.
What is the legend for?
The legend tells you which colour stands for which group. Check it before reading a height so you pick the right column.
How do I compare the two groups?
For one category, compare the two columns in its pair. To compare across categories, follow the same colour from one pair to the next.
How do I find a group's total?
Add that group's columns across all the categories. Only add the columns of the one colour you are asked about.
Do I ever add the two columns in a pair?
Not usually. The pair shows two separate values side by side; add them only if the question asks for the combined amount.