Data Interpretation — Answer Key
Part A: Multiple Choice
Circle the best answer for each question.
1. A bar graph starts the y-axis at 80 instead of 0. The bars look very different in height. This graph is misleading because it ___.
A) exaggerates small differences between values
B) uses too many colors for the bars
C) shows data only for one year
D) lists categories in alphabetical order
Truncated axes magnify tiny differences and mislead viewers about size gaps.
2. A table lists weekly rainfall while a line graph plots the same numbers. Which display best shows the trend over the weeks?
A) The table because it lists exact numbers
B) The line graph because it reveals upward or downward patterns
C) Neither because both show identical data
D) The table because it has more rows
Line graphs reveal change patterns that raw tables hide in numbers.
3. A sports magazine shows two soccer players with bar lengths nearly equal, but the y-axis is missing. The reader cannot ___.
A) count the number of bars present
B) see the colors used in the chart
C) tell what numerical values the bars represent
D) read the names of the players
Missing scales hide the actual values, leaving readers to guess data sizes.
4. A combined display shows a table of monthly profits and a pie chart of expense categories. Together they help a business owner ___.
A) pick a favorite color scheme
B) memorize the alphabet quickly
C) decide which sport to play
D) see both totals over time and where money is spent
Combining displays provides both time-based totals and category share insights.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the correct answer on each line.
1. A graph with a truncated y-axis is called misleading because it can mislead readers.
Truncated axes distort visual comparisons and confuse the data story.
2. When a table and a graph appear together, they form a combined display.
Combined displays let readers verify exact numbers while seeing visual trends.
3. A line graph of yearly economic growth showing rises and falls reveals the country's trend.
Trends summarize many data points into a clear long-term direction.
4. A pictograph of soccer goals using players as symbols still needs a clear key for accuracy.
A key gives meaning to each picture so totals stay correct.
5. The display that tells the clearest story is the one that highlights the main message.
Clarity comes from matching the message to a fitting graph type.