Bar graphs are visual representations of data (typically grouped) in the form of vertical or horizontal rectangular bars, the length of which is related to the data measure. Bar charts are another name for them. In statistics, bar graphs are one of the data management methods.
Statistics are the gathering, presentation, analysis, organisation, and interpretation of data observations. Tables, bar graphs, pie charts, histograms, frequency polygons, and other approaches can be used to illustrate statistical data. Let’s look at what a bar chart is, the many types of bar graphs, their uses, and some solved instances in this post.
What Is a Bar Graph?
A bar graph is a graph in which the total number of observations in a category is represented by rectangular bars or columns (called bins).Vertical columns, horizontal bars, comparative bars (several bars to illustrate a comparison between values), and stacked bars are all options for bar charts (bars containing multiple types of information).
How to Draw a Bar Graph?
Consider the following scenario: we have four different sorts of pets: cat, dog, rabbit, and hamster, with corresponding numbers of 22, 39, 5, and 9.
We must follow the steps outlined below to visually portray the data using a bar graph.
Step 1: Choose a title for your bar graph.
Step 2: Sketch out the horizontal and vertical axes. (For instance, Pet Types)
Step 3: Finally, give the horizontal axis a name.
Step 4: On the horizontal axis, write the names of the animals, such as Cat, Dog, Rabbit, and Hamster.
Step 5: Finally, give the vertical axis a name. (For instance, the number of pets)
Step 6: Decide on a scale range for the data.
Step 7: Finally, create a bar graph that represents each pet category with its own set of numbers.
Solving a Bar Graph: Tips & Tricks
- Before you can answer any of the questions, you must first comprehend what the bar graph is attempting to convey. Make it a practice to scan headings first. You must comprehend what is on the x- and y-axes, as well as the relationship between the two in terms of length bars.
- These types of inquiries are simple to answer. Simply interpret the information in your head. Examine the length of the bars. The answers will undoubtedly arrive.
- Calculations from one question can sometimes be used to calculate calculations from another question.
Bar Graph examples with questions and answers
Examine the graph below carefully and respond to the questions that follow. The graph depicts the results of a school’s students.
1.Which year has the smallest disparity between the number of pupils who passed and those who failed?
- 1991-92
- 1992-93
- 1993-94
- 1994-95
Explanation and Answer
Answer: A
For 1991-92, the difference between the number of students who passed and those who failed was 150-100 = 50.
For 1992-93, the difference between the number of students who passed and those who failed was 200-100 = 100.
For 1993-94, the difference between the number of students who passed and those who failed was 300-50 = 250.
For 1994-95, the difference between the number of students who passed and those who failed was 250-100 = 150.
For 1991-92, the difference is minimal, hence the answer is A.
2.How many times have the same amount of pupils failed?
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
Explanation and Answer
Answer: D
According to visual observation, the number of failed students in 1991-92, 1992-93, 1994-95, and 1995-96 is the same. As a result, the answer is four times.
3.When is the greatest percentage increase in total student enrollment over the previous year?
- 1995-96
- 1994-95
- 1993-94
- 1992-93
Explanation and Answer
Answer: D
In 1992-93, the percent increase was equal to 100 x (300 – 250) / 250 = 20%.
In 1993-94, the percent increase was equal to 100 x (350 – 300) / 300 = (50 / 3) % = 16.6%.
Percent growth = 100 x (350 – 350) / 350 = 0 % in 1994-95.
In 1995-96, the % increase was equal to 100 x (400 – 350) / 350 = 14.2 %.
As a result, 20% is the highest. Thus, option A.
Examine the graph below and respond to the following questions:
4.In which years did the highest and lowest voter turnout (in percentage) ever occur?
- 1984 and 1962
- 1971 and 1977
- 1957 and 1962
- 1984 and 1971
Explanation and Answer
Answer: A
According to visual observation, the largest voter turnout (in percentage) was in 1984, with 64 %
The lowest voter turnout (in percentage) is 55 % in 1962.
5.Which of the following choices has a numerical difference in voter turnout (in percentage) almost equal to 7%?
- 1957-62
- 1984-89
- 1996-98
- 1971-77
Explanation and Answer
Answer: A
Option (A) 62.2 – 55 = 7.2 % needed variation
Option (B) The necessary fluctuation is 64 – 62 = 2%.
Option (C) 61.97 – 57.9 = 4.07 % necessary variation
Option (D) Option (A) clearly meets the requisite fluctuation of 60.5 – 55.3 = 5.2 %
6.Between 1952 and 1998, the average voter turnout (in percentage) was approximately?
A whopping 56.8%
- 40.9%
- 62.7%
- 60%
Explanation and Answer
Answer: D
(61.2 + 62.2 + 55 + 61.3 + 55.3 + 60.5 + 56.9 + 64 + 62 + 61 + 57.9 + 61.97) / 12
= 59.93% ≈ 60%
Conclusion
Bar graphs are a striking image in presentations and reports. They’re popular because, unlike a table of numerical data, they make it much easier for the reader to discover patterns or trends. Additionally, bar graphs can be used to compare objects across groups.