Question

the stacked line chart shows the numbers of college degrees awarded to males and females since 1970. complete parts (a) through (d).

and females?
they were approximately equal in 2010.

c. during what decade did the total number of degrees awarded increase the most?
the decade in which the total number of degrees increased the most was 2010 through 2019.

d. do you think the stack plot is an effective way to display these data? briefly discuss other ways that might have been used instead. choose the correct answer below.

a. the stacked line chart makes it easy to see the exact number for each gender for every year, but a pie chart would make it easier to compare the percentages for each gender.
b. the stacked line chart makes it easy to see the exact number for each gender for every year, but a double bar graph (one bar for males and one for females each year) would make the male/female comparison easier.
c. the stacked line chart makes it easy to see the changing total, but a pie chart would make it easier to compare the percentages for each gender.
d. the stacked line chart makes it easy to see the changing total, but a double bar graph (one bar for males and one for females each year) would make the male/female comparison easier.

Explanation:

Analyze the properties of a stacked line chart

Using the Stacked Line Chart Interpretation knowledge point

• A stacked line chart plots cumulative totals, where each colored band represents a category stacked on top of the previous one.
• The top boundary line of the entire stack represents the combined total of all categories.
• Therefore, it is highly effective for showing how the overall total changes over time.
• However, because the upper categories are stacked on top of a shifting baseline (the lower category's line), it is difficult to read the exact values for individual categories directly from the vertical axis.

Evaluate alternative visualization methods

• A double bar graph places individual bars for each category (males and females) side-by-side for each year.
• This side-by-side placement allows for a direct, easy comparison of the individual values between the two genders.
• Thus, while the stacked line chart is excellent for showing the changing total, a double bar graph would make the male/female comparison easier.

Match with the given options

• Option A and B incorrectly state that the stacked line chart makes it easy to see the exact number for each gender.
• Option C suggests a pie chart, which is used for static part-to-whole relationships rather than comparing trends over time.
• Option D correctly identifies that the stacked line chart makes it easy to see the changing total, and a double bar graph would make the male/female comparison easier.

Answer:

• A. The stacked line chart makes it easy to see the exact number for each gender for every year, but a pie chart would make it easier to compare the percentages for each gender.
• B. The stacked line chart makes it easy to see the exact number for each gender for every year, but a double bar graph (one bar for males and one for females each year) would make the male/female comparison easier.
• C. The stacked line chart makes it easy to see the changing total, but a pie chart would make it easier to compare the percentages for each gender.
• D. The stacked line chart makes it easy to see the changing total, but a double bar graph (one bar for males and one for females each year) would make the male/female comparison easier. (Correct answer)