How to create a line chart in chart js

by gayathrimohan Updated: Jan 5, 2024

Guide Kit

A line chart is a graphical illustration of facts points. Straight lines connect those data points. Users use it to display trends over a continuous interval or time series.

It enables us to visualize the connection among variables. It also helps to identify patterns in the data. The line chart has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. We can credit Scottish engineer and economist William Playfair with its origins. He is the one who introduced the concept of graphical representation of data in his book. The book's name is "The Commercial and Political Atlas" from 1786. Playfair's work laid the foundation for various types of charts. It includes the line chart.

Line charts are versatile visualizations. Users use it to represent data trends over a continuous interval.

Here are brief explanations of the types you mentioned:

1.Basic Line Charts:

It displays a single line connecting data points.
It is Ideal for showing trends in a single dataset over time or another continuous variable.

2.Stacked Line Charts:

We showcase many data series, stacking each line on top of the previous one.
Useful for illustrating the cumulative contribution of each series to the total.

3.Multi-line Charts:

It features many lines, each representing a different data series.
Great for comparing trends between many variables.

A line chart consists of three things:

X-axis (horizontal): represents the independent variable and displays categories or values.
Y-axis (vertical): represents the dependent variable and shows corresponding data values.
Data points: Lines connect the data points. Data points mark specific intersections of x and y values. The lines connect these points. Users use it to illustrate trends or patterns over the plotted values.

Some tips for creating an effective line chart:

Data Selection: Choose relevant and concise data to convey your message. Avoid clutter by focusing on key trends or comparisons.
Axis Labeling: Label both the horizontal (x-axis) and vertical (y-axis) with descriptive titles. Include units of measurement to provide context.
Scale Consideration: Opt for a scale that best represents your data. Ensure it's easy to understand and avoids distortion that might mislead viewers.
Title Clarity: Craft a clear and concise title. The line chart summarizes the main takeaway. Make it informative and engaging.
Color Choices: Use distinct and different colors for many lines. Consider palettes to enhance accessibility.
Data Markers: If applicable, use markers or symbols to highlight specific data points. This can aid in emphasizing key events or values.
Gridlines: Include gridlines to guide the viewer in interpreting the chart. Ensure they don't overpower the data lines.
Legend Placement: Position the legend, avoiding overlap with data points. Opt for simplicity and clarity in legendary design.
Data Source: Include a brief note about the data source and timeframe. This adds credibility and helps viewers understand the context.
Annotations: Use annotations to explain notable points or trends in the data. This provides more insight for the audience.

Various industries use line charts to visualize trends over time.

Here are examples:

Finance
Marketing
Science
Healthcare
Education
Manufacturing
Energy
Retail

In conclusion, line charts play a crucial role in data analysis. Providing a clear visual representation of trends and patterns over time. Their simplicity and effectiveness make them powerful tools for conveying complex information. It enables quick insights and informed decision-making.

Fig: Preview of the output that you will get on running this code from your IDE.

Code

Display line chart with connected dots using chartJS

JavaScriptLines of Code : 67License : Strong Copyleft (CC BY-SA 4.0)

var chart = new Chart(ctx, {
   type: 'scatter',
   data: {
      datasets: [{
         data: [{
            x: 1,
            y: 1
         }, {
            x: 3,
            y: 7
         }, {
            x: 6,
            y: 5
         }, { // add same data as the first one, to draw the closing line
            x: 1,
            y: 1
         }],
         borderColor: 'black',
         borderWidth: 1,
         pointBackgroundColor: ['#000', '#00bcd6', '#d300d6'],
         pointBorderColor: ['#000', '#00bcd6', '#d300d6'],
         pointRadius: 5,
         pointHoverRadius: 5,
         fill: false,
         tension: 0,
         showLine: true
      }, {
         data: [{
            x: 3.5,
            y: 4.5
         }],
         pointBackgroundColor: 'orange',
         pointBorderColor: 'darkorange',
         pointRadius: 10,
         pointHoverRadius: 10
      }]
   },
   options: {
      legend: false,
      tooltips: false,
      scales: {
         xAxes: [{
            ticks: {
               min: 0,
               max: 10
            },
            gridLines: {
               color: '#888',
               drawOnChartArea: false
            }
         }],
         yAxes: [{
            ticks: {
               min: 0,
               max: 8,
               padding: 10
            },
            gridLines: {
               color: '#888',
               drawOnChartArea: false
            }
         }]
      }
   }
});
<script src="https://cdnjs.cloudflare.com/ajax/libs/Chart.js/2.7.0/Chart.min.js"></script>
<canvas id="ctx"></canvas>

Instructions

Follow the steps carefully to get the output easily.

Install Visual Studio Code IDE on your computer.
Create a new HTML file.
Copy the code using the 'Copy' button and create an HTML tag then paste the code inside the tag into that HTML file.
Remove first sixty five lines of code(no:1 to 65) and then create <script>tag.
Create a <script> tag inside the <body> tag Then keep the function (no:1to65)lines of codes inside the script tag(refer to preview as well).
<script> tag should be added below the <canvas> tag in <body> tag.
Save and run the HTML file directly from the file location to generate the output.

I hope you found this useful.

I found this code snippet by searching for 'How to create a line chart in chart js ' you can try any such use case!

Environment Tested

I tested this solution in the following versions. Be mindful of changes when working with other versions.

The solution is created and tested in Visual Studio Code 1.85.1.

Using this solution, we are able to create a line chart in chart js with simple steps. This process also facilities an easy way to use, hassle-free method to create a hands-on working version of code which would help us to create a line chart in chart js.

FAQ

1. How can I customize global line chart settings to fit my data?

You can customize it using the "defaults" section in the configuration object. This allows you to set common properties for all line charts, such as colors, fonts, and tooltips.

2. What are the advantages and limitations of using stacked area charts in line chart JS?

Stacked area charts offer advantages like visualizing the cumulative effect of many datasets. But limitations include potential difficulty in comparing individual dataset values due to stacking.

3. How do polar area charts differ from regular line charts displaying data trends?

Polar area charts differ from regular line charts. They represent data in a circular format. This makes it suitable for displaying proportions. The whole does it rather than sequential trends.

4. What steps should we take to ensure accurate and reliable chart data in line chart js?

To ensure accurate and reliable data in Chart.js line charts, confirm and format your data. Also, ensure to handle missing values, and consider using tooltips. People use it to provide more context.

5. How can line chart js data visualization help with decision-making processes?

Data visualization through Chart.js line charts aids decision-making. It Provides a clear representation of trends and patterns in the data. it. It enables users to make informed decisions. Visual insights into relationships and fluctuations inform the process.

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