Number representation in chart by PowerPoint Designers
Have you ever marveled at how PowerPoint designers effortlessly represent numbers? Each designer possesses their unique technique for visualizing numerical data. In this blog, we will delve into the art of number representation in charts, focusing on various creative approaches. Let’s explore these methods in detail and discover how to effectively communicate percentages through figures and charts.
Simple Representation with 100% Column / Bar Charts
The simplest approach to representing three numbers in percentage is by using a 100% column or bar chart. However, to enhance visual appeal, designers can incorporate additional elements. One option is to integrate icons within the graph, elevating the overall aesthetic of the slide. Additionally, instead of plain colors, gradients can be customized to complement the template’s color scheme. For a more subtle effect, consider using pastel shades as patterns, which pair well with dark-colored icons.
Pie Chart Representation
Pie charts serve as an excellent alternative to column and bar charts for displaying percentages in PowerPoint. Designers often prefer this chart type due to its versatility. Taking it a step further, PowerPoint designers can transform a pie chart into a donut chart. This provides the opportunity to utilize the white space at the center for icons or to represent the total value of the split. Similar to the column / bar chart, icons can be used to symbolize different categories within the chart. In the case of a donut chart, solid colors are recommended over pattern representations.
Another technique involves splitting a single pie chart into three separate charts. Each chart represents a portion of the total percentage. For instance, if the number is 70%, a donut chart can be divided into segments of 70% and 30%, which add up to the whole number. The 70% segment is then filled with a solid color, while the remaining 30% can be shaded in gray or various shades of the solid color.
Theme-Based Representation
Similar to the donut chart, theme-based representation focuses on highlighting a single number using an object or icon. For example, in a medical presentation, designers may employ capsules or injections, filling them with gradient colors. The object would be predominantly filled with a solid color representing 70%, while the remaining 30% is depicted with a gray shade or left white. This is just one example, as each designer brings their own imaginative touch to their work. Based on the main theme of the presentation, icons can be chosen and utilized as shapes to represent numbers, elevating the overall impact of the presentation.
Icon Representation
Icon representation is particularly effective when associated with the number of people. Consider the previous example of 70% active individuals out of 100%. To represent this, designers can employ ten person icons. Out of the ten, seven icons would be filled, indicating the active individuals, while the remaining three icons would be left without shading, representing the inactive portion.
Beyond these techniques, PowerPoint designers often employ speedometers, cylindrical shapes, and even maps to represent numbers. The creative possibilities are boundless, limited only by the designer’s imagination. In this blog, we have explored a few examples of how to represent numbers like PowerPoint designers. Stay tuned for our next blog, where we will explore another captivating topic!
