How do you draw a bar graph?

Answer 1

First off, Microsoft Excel, Google Docs, and other computer programs make neat, accurate bar graphs to make your life easier!

To do one by hand, draw a horizontal x-axis, and a vertical y-axis. Under the horizontal axis, put dates or categories (e.g. red, yellow, and blue). Next to the vertical axis, write numbers that apply to your data. If you have data like 10, 15, and 7, you'll want the top of your vertical axis to be about 20, and the bottom should always be 0. Once both your axis are drawn and and have labels draw the bars. They should not touch each other unless you are making a histogram. After you're done, make a title, and titles for each axis. For the example I've been using, I might have a title of "Distribution of M&M Colors," with my horizontal axis titled "Color," and my vertical axis titled "Number in each bag." Depending on why you're making a bar graph, you may need a legend underneath, which gives more information. For my example, I'd say "Graph 1. On 2 December 2011, bags of M&Ms from the Walmart on 32nd Street were analyzed for distribution of colors."

If you don't understand this, look carefully at some examples of bar graphs. I hope this helps!