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Skills Workshop 15
Interpreting Graphs
Graphs are used to illustrate data in a picture-like format. Many times, it is easier to understand the
data if they are shown in a graphical form instead of a numerical form in a table. For example, a line
graph can be used to show the trend of fi nancial markets over time. Three common types of graphs are
bar graphs, line graphs, and circle graphs.
See It
Using the line graph above, what was the highest account balance over the
fi ve months shown? Identify the highest point on the line graph and determine
the dollar amount to which the point corresponds.
Step 1: Locate the highest point on the line graph, which occurred in July.
Step 2: From the highest point, draw a line to the vertical axis to determine the
corresponding dollar amount ($900).
Check It
Use the line graph above to answer the questions.
1. In which month did the account have the lowest balance?
2. In which month was the account balance lower than the previous month?
3. What was the account balance in April?
4. In which month was the account balance $800?
$500
$1000
March
April
May June July
Account Balance Monthly Expenses
Line Graph Circle Graph
Savings
25%
Rent
25%
Gasoline
21%
Entertainment
12%
Meals
17%