Pie Charts
Pie charts are circular statistical graphics which are divided into slices to illustrate numerical proportion. In a pie chart, the arc length of each slice is proportional to the quantity it represents.
Avg. Time: 7 minutes per set
Difficulty: 5/10
Frequency: 20% of DI questions
About Pie Charts
Key characteristics and strategies for Pie Charts
Key Characteristics
- Circular representation divided into sectors (slices)
- Each slice represents a proportion of the whole (100%)
- Good for showing composition and proportion
- Limited in the number of categories that can be effectively displayed
Solving Strategies
- Convert percentages to actual values using the total
- For comparing two pie charts, focus on both percentage and absolute changes
- Use the clock face method for quick approximations (e.g., 25% is 3 hours)
- Look for complementary slices that add up to 50% or 100%
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing percentage points with percentage change
- Not accounting for different totals when comparing two pie charts
- Misinterpreting small slices or slices with similar sizes
- Overlooking the relationship between slices