Drawing and Analysing Graphs

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Planning an investigation

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Scientists need to be able to plan, carry out, analyse the results of and evaluate investigations.

In order to reach a conclusion it is important to present and analyse results in the correct way.

What should you consider when analysing your results and coming to a conclusion?

Presenting results: graphs

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Drawing a graph makes it easier to spot trends and patterns in results. However, it must be neat, clear and easy to interpret.

Label the axes with the names of the independent and dependent variables and any units.

Put the independent variable on the horizontal axis unless you are told otherwise.

Choose scales that let your graph fill the paper. You do not need to start at zero.

Don’t forget to add a title that shows what the graph is about.

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What type of graph?

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Planning an investigation