Overview
Color is one of the most powerful tools in data visualization, but it must be used carefully. It can be used to represent categories, show intensity (gradients), or highlight specific data points. Misuse of color can lead to confusion or misinterpretation.
Types of Color Scales
- Qualitative: Used for categorical data (e.g., different colors for different departments).
- Sequential: Used for ordered data or numeric ranges (e.g., light to dark blue for low to high values).
- Diverging: Used to show deviation from a midpoint (e.g., red for negative, white for zero, blue for positive).
Best Practices
- Accessibility: Use color-blind friendly palettes.
- Consistency: Use the same color for the same category across multiple charts.
- Contrast: Ensure text and important elements are easily readable against the background.