Lesson 1.8: Describing and Presenting Data, Processes and Visual Information in Writing

Introduction

In the world of academic writing, the ability to describe and present data, processes, and visual information is crucial. This lesson focuses on the conventions needed to convey complex information clearly and effectively. By the end of this lesson, students, you should be able to accurately interpret graphs, charts, tables, and diagrams and express their insights in a clear academic prose style. You will also learn how to use specific language related to trends and quantities, how to sequence processes accurately, and how to integrate visual data seamlessly into your writing.

Learning Objectives

Describe what a graph, chart, table, or diagram shows using accurate academic language.
Use appropriate terminology for trends and quantities: increase, decline, fluctuation, proportion, comparison, and approximation.
Identify and report significant features of a dataset instead of listing every figure.
Describe a process or cycle in a sequence using passive voice and time/sequence markers.
Integrate a figure into a report or essay by labeling, referencing it, and providing insightful comments not just restating the data.

Understanding Visual Data

Visual data such as graphs, charts, tables, and diagrams are essential tools in academic writing. They provide a quick way to convey complex information succinctly. The key to effectively presenting this data lies in how you interpret and translate it into written form.

1.1 Types of Visual Data

There are common types of visual representations you may encounter:

Graphs: Illustrate relationships between variables. Common types include line graphs, bar graphs, and pie charts.
Charts: Used to show trends over time or comparisons between different datasets.
Tables: Present precise numerical data in a structured format, useful for detailed comparisons.
Diagrams: Visual representations of processes, systems, or structures. These may include flowcharts or cycle diagrams.

Let's break down how to describe each type effectively.

1.2 Describing Graphs

When describing a graph, it is important to convey both the overall trend and significant data points:

Identify the axes: Always mention what each axis represents, including units of measurement.
Summarize trends: Use phrases like 'as shown in Figure 1, there is a clear increase in...'.

Example: Consider a line graph showing temperature changes over a year. When describing this graph, you might say:

"As illustrated in Figure 1, the temperature exhibits a fluctuating pattern throughout the year. The most significant increase occurs between March and April, where the average temperature rises from $15^{\circ}C$ to $22^{\circ}C$. Conversely, a notable decline is observed from November to December, dropping to an average of $5^{\circ}C$."

1.3 Language of Trends and Quantities

Using precise language is critical to convey quantities and trends:

Increase: A steady rise in values can be described as 'the data shows an increase of...'
Decline: A drop can be expressed with 'the results indicate a decline in...'
Fluctuation: If data varies, you could say 'the figures reveal significant fluctuation...'
Proportion: When discussing relative values, use terms like 'a sizeable proportion of...'
Comparison: Comparing two datasets can be articulated as 'in comparison to...'
Approximation: If exact figures are not clear, you might use 'approximately...'

Example: In presenting data, you can say:

"The survey results show an increase in student engagement, rising from 45% in September to 65% in December. In comparison, faculty engagement rose by only 10%, indicating that while student participation improved, engagement levels among faculty remained relatively static."

1.4 Selecting Significant Features

When describing data, it is inefficient to list every single figure. Instead, focus on the most relevant aspects:

Identify key trends rather than minor variations.
Summarize critical data points that support your argument or observation.

For instance, rather than counting every percentage in a chart, concentrate on the highest and lowest figures or any notable shifts in data. Highlighting extremes and average values can provide a clear narrative.

1.5 Describing Processes

Describing processes in your academic writing also requires clarity and organization. You will often need to use the passive voice to emphasize the action rather than the actor:

Sequence markers: Words like 'firstly', 'next', 'finally' guide your reader through the process.
Passive structure: Focus on the action; for example, 'The solution is heated...' rather than 'We heat the solution...'

Example: A process description might look like...

"Firstly, the sample is collected. Next, it is placed into the centrifuge where it is spun at high speed. Finally, the extracted serum is analyzed to determine its composition."

1.6 Integrating Figures into Text

When incorporating visual data, it is essential to label and reference each figure within your text. This helps readers locate the visual aid while reading:

Labeling: Always give your figures numbers (e.g., Figure 1, Figure 2).
Referencing: Use phrases such as 'as shown in Figure 1...'.
Commenting: Provide insight or interpretation rather than merely restating what the figure indicates.

Example:

"Figure 2 depicts the correlation between time spent studying and student grades. As illustrated, there is a positive correlation; as study time increases, grades tend to improve, indicating that..."

Conclusion

Mastering the skill of describing and presenting visual data, processes, and cycles is foundational to academic writing. You now understand how to interpret different forms of visual data and articulate their insights using precise language. By highlighting significant features and integrating them into your writing effectively, you enhance the clarity and persuasiveness of your academic work. Make sure you practice these techniques with varied datasets to build your confidence.

Study Notes

Visual data types: graphs, charts, tables, diagrams.
Important descriptors: increase, decline, fluctuation, proportion, comparison, approximation.
Focus on significant features over minor details.
Use passive voice and sequence markers when describing processes.
Properly label, reference, and comment on visual aids in your writing.