Step 1: Determine the x-axis and y-axis
o x-axis = horizontal (x = no)
o y-axis = vertical (y = yes)
Step 2: Label the x-axis and y-axis with variables
o x-axis
o y-axis
Independent Variable
Dependent Variable
*Be sure to include a unit when necessary!
Step 3: Determine the type of graph
o Bar graph: Use to show categories or comparisons
o Line graph: Use to show information over time or continuous data
Step 4: Number each axis
o
o
o
o
Determine the space you have
Count the number of lines on each axis
Look at the data you have to plot
Determine how you will divide the data
Step 5: Title the graph
IV
DV
o Use the format: The effect of ________
on ________
Step 6: Graph your data
o Use a ruler to help make straight lines