(no subject)

[symbioidlj]

http://www.washington.edu/computing/training/560/zz-tufte.html

Chartjunk

Chartjunk consists of decorative elements that provide no data and cause confusion.

• Tufte discusses the rule of 1+1=3 (or more): 2 elements in close proximity cause a visible interaction. Such interactions can be very fatiguing (e.g., moiré patterns, optical vibration) and can show information that is not really there (EI-60: data that is not there, VD-111: chart junk)
• In major science publications we see 2% to 20% moiré vibration. For example, in recent statistical and computer publications chartjunk ranges from 12% to 68%
• Techniques to avoid chartjunk include replacing crosshatching with (pastel) solids or gray, using direct labeling as opposed to legends, and avoiding heavy data containers