Guidelines to Draw a Scientific Graph.

Mark
Step Action Description (usually)
awarded
Identify the  Place the independent variable (what you change) on
1a independent and the the x-axis, and the dependent (what you measure) on 1
dependent variables the y-axis. (See note below)
 Clearly label the x and y axes including units of
1b Label each axis. measurement (if any), normally in brackets 1

 Subtract the lowest data value from the highest

2a Determine the range data value for each variable. (see example)

 Determine the numerical value for each grid unit

that best fits the range of each variable by
dividing the range by the total number of grid
lines available. Ensure that it is a sensible value.
See example below.
 The range of each axis may be different. They
should be large enough to cover the range
Determine the scale of without lots of extra space.
2b 1
the graph  The scale does need to start at (0,0) – but often
this is needed if you need to extrapolate.
 The scale of each axis may be different, but each
one must be consistent
 Use “tick marks” that are on the outside of the
axes (see example)
 Do not overcrowd the axes. (see example)

 The title should clearly communicate what the

Provide a descriptive graph is about. It should refer to both
3 1
Title independent and dependent variables.

 Plot each data value on the graph with a NEAT

4 Plot data points “X” or “+”. NOT too big, nor too small. 1

 Identify a trend or relationship between the

independent and dependent variables
 Remove any outliers for consideration…(some
would circle the outliers and include a key)
 Draw a curve or a line of Best Fit (LoBF) that
describes the identified trend. (The LoBF is an
averaging process, it does not need to touch any
5 Draw the graph 1
of the data points. Consider the use of error
bars)(see example)
 If required to extrapolate beyond the first/last
data point, use a dotted line.
 Do not draw Dot-to-dot except under special
circumstances.

Table 1: Steps to produce a good graph

NOTES:

 From Step 1: the only exception to this rule may be when Time is one of the variables involved. It depends
largely on the context of the question. If a Rate (something per second) question is being asked, often time
will go on the x axis irrespective of whether it is the independent or dependent variable. The reason lies in
the fact that the gradient is “something/time” which equates to the rate.

 If the question you are answering requires you to “Use the Graph”, to say calculate a gradient, show the
y 2− y
method you use: m= 1
and substitute data points that lie on the line of best fit, and not from the data
x 2−x 1
table UNLESS they also lie on the LoBF.
 Any interpolation should be shown clearly on the graph with a (partial) dotted line to the LoBF.

 If plotting multiple data sets, WRITE OUT A KEY/LEGEND!

 If error bars are needed, seek guidance from your teacher.

TO REMEMBER:

 A Line graph (straight or curved) is used for continuous data or where there is a
mathematical relationship that can be determined. (i.e. two sets of measureable
data)
 A histogram (column graph) is used for discrete data or categories. (Only one set of
measureable data)
 USE PENCIL…a Sharp PENCIL. (preferably 2B) ALWAYS!
 USE RULER
Example: Imagine if you are given the following information:

The effect on increasing coils on the number of paperclips an electromagnet picks

up.

Step 1: Identify the variables

Independent Variable (purposefully changed by the experimenter):
Number of coils

Dependent Variable (changes with the independent variable and is measured):

Number of paperclips
Step 2: Determine the variable range
Subtract the lowest data value from the highest data value for each variable.
Range of paperclips: 14-4 = 10
Range of coils: 20-5 = 15
Step 3: Determine the scale of the graph
Determine the numerical value for each grid unit that best fits the range of each variable.
Number of lines on graph: 36 (y axis)

Step 4: Number and label each axis and title the graph
Step 5: Determine the data points and plot on the graph
(5, 4) (10, 7) (15, 11) (20, 14)
Step 6: Draw the graph
Draw a curve or a line that best fits the data points. Do not connect the dots.
Some comments:

 Two sets of measureable data, therefore a line graph is drawn. This graph would score:
 Notice the clarity of the “tick Marks” on the axes. Good scale.

4/6
 (0,0) is not a data point from the table and is not plotted on the graph.
 There are no units in this question, so none appear.
 The graph occupies most of the space permitted.

Things that would be marked down: With maybe a mark taken off for
writing the comment in the graph
 Data points should be plotted with a small “x” not a “ “ area.
 Comments should NOT be written in the graph area.
 The LoBF SHOULD NOT go beyond the last data points as a solid line.