Consider the impact of a poorly designed chart. Explain why it is important to have a well-designed chart, and name at least four tips for creating a good chart.

What will be an ideal response?

Answers will vary. Students should cover some of the following major points.

A well-designed chart can illuminate facts that might be hidden by viewing only numbers. However, a poorly designed chart can mislead readers, misrepresent data, and make it more difficult to interpret data.  

To create effective and useful charts, keep in mind the following tips as you design
charts:?• Keep it simple. Do not clutter a chart with too many graphical elements. Focus
attention on the data rather than on decorative elements that do not inform.
• Focus on the message. Design the chart to highlight the points you want to convey
to readers.
• Limit the number of data series. Most charts should display no more than four or
five data series. Pie charts should have no more than six slices.
• Choose colors carefully. Display different data series in contrasting colors to make
it easier to distinguish one series from another. Modify the default colors as needed
to make them distinct on the screen and in the printed copy.
• Limit your chart to a few text styles. Use a maximum of two or three different
text styles in the same chart. Having too many text styles in one chart can distract
attention from the data.?The goal of written communication is always to inform the reader in the simplest,
most accurate, and most direct way possible. When creating worksheets and charts,everything in the workbook should be directed toward that end