This is the time for scatter plots in the 10 x 10 charting tips series:
- A scatter plot is square by definition (I forget that sometimes…);
- In some cases, it makes more sense to use a scatter plot than two column charts: for example, instead of having a column chart to display product market share and another chart to display product growth, consider merging both into a scatter plot (market share on the x axis and growth on the y axis);
- If you are plotting several data series, color code them instead of using different markers…
- … but consider using several charts;
- In scatter plots, use empty circles as markers to let the reader see the overlapping points;
- Use a scatter plot matrix to analyze pairwise relationships between series;
- Use a scatter plot as an alternative to horizontal bar charts, like in a population pyramid;
- If needed, use a scatter plot instead of a line chart if you have an unevenly-spaced time series;
- You can use a scatter plot to create a basic map;
- An outline can ruin your scatter plot. If possible, remove it and explain it;
As you can see, you can use a scatter plot in Excel to create many other charts. Just use your imagination and share it in the comments.