An area chart is very similar to a line chart (time series graph) with the area between the axis and the line shaded. A stacked area chart segregates the area, based on related categories. Area charts may allow trends to be more easily spotted because the eye focuses on a bigger area rather than comparing lines.
In this recipe, we will create an area chart that will show the results of restaurant re-inspections in New York City from June 2012 to June 2016.
To follow this recipe, open B05527_01 – STARTER.twbx
. Use the worksheet called Area, and connect to the DOHMH New York City Restaurant data source.
The following are the steps to create the area chart for re-inspections:
Area charts look like line charts (or time series graphs) that have shaded areas. Area charts are also similar to stacked bar charts, where the areas are cumulative. It is best used when you want to show the cumulative value of the measures you are using. Area charts, however, bear the same risks as the stacked bar chart. Because individual areas are stacked, it is hard to compare the different areas because they don't all start in the same level.
Creating an area chart is similar to creating your line chart and your stacked bar chart. You create a time series graph first. By default, Tableau will create a time series graph (or line graph) first when you put a Date or Date & Time field in either Rows or Columns, and a Measure in the other.
Once you have the time series graph, you can change the mark to Area, and drop a dimension in Color in the Marks card to create the different colored areas.
I've often asked students in my training classes when they would usually use area charts, and majority of the time students mention budgeting. With budgeting, they care about what proportion over time goes to which categories, but they also care about the cumulative value of the budget.
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