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© 2014 Pacific Crest
273
Step
Explanation
Watch it Work!
5.
Check accuracy
Check for agreement between
the source data and the results of
step 4
The data is correctly displayed in the
graph.
6.
Determine author
and use
Identify the author of the graph, as
well as who is using the graph if
different from the author
The graph was published by Business
Insider, a web blog specializing in
business news
7.
Identify purpose
Ascertain the reasons why the
individuals in step 6 made and/or
published the graph
The graph was made to “prove a college
education just isn’t worth the money
anymore”
8.
Identify bias
Determine if the graph is bias in
favor of the author’s purpose
The graph is misleading since college
costs are limited to four years while
graduate earnings often occur for up to
forty years. Also, the earnings for those
without a college degree have dropped.
9.
Improvement
Suggest recommendations for
improving the accuracy and
presentation of the graph
The graph should compare total costs
and earnings as opposed to annual
figures and/or include the earnings for
non-degree individuals
10. Validate
Have someone else analyze the
graph or your analysis to validate
your work
Others support the analysis.
YOUR
TURN!
Graphic is available online at companion website.
O
ops
! A
voiding
C
ommon
E
rrors
●
Misreading the units for quantitative data
Example
: Units are in thousands of dollars but you assume they are dollars
Why?
When using the values from a graph to answer a question you should always check
the units.
●
Failing to notice an author’s intent
Example
: Not reading the title or description for a graph
Why?
Knowing the author’s intent is essential to identifying patterns in the graph and thus
analyzing it.
●
Being misled by distracting graphics
Example
: Graphs with 3D perspectives and commercial images
Why?
These graphs may seem appealing to the public but you should be very critical when
analyzing them as the graphics often mislead the viewer
6.3 Graphical Analysis