Comprehension of Graphs and Tables Depend on the Task: Empirical Evidence from Two Web-Based Studies

摘要: Graphs and tables are an effective means of communication. However, relatively little experimental work exists examining differences between various formats in how well people understand provided information. We conducted two web-based experiments with a large, diverse sample to explore the effects display format on respondents’ comprehension. found that comprehension depended task. were better for estimating differences; however, when equality sums. 3D reduced pie charts but not bar charts. Although never assisted comprehension, they often did significantly impair either. Comprehension based 3-way table was as good clustered worse divided Information can be conveyed graphically even tables, choice needs sensitive task at hand.