---
type: method
slug: chart-selection
title: "Choose and design the right chart"
category: "Science & Data Analysis"
subcategory: "Data analysis"
level: starter
source: https://deepstoryresearch.com/method/chart-selection
publisher: Deepstory Research
---

> **How to use this file:** attach it to ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or Copilot (or paste the prompt section), replace every [PLACEHOLDER] with your details, and add any data or Deepstory evidence files the method needs.

## When to use this method
- Preparing charts for reports, decks or dashboards.

## Prompt

# Choose and design the right chart
Method by Deepstory Research: deepstoryresearch.com/method/chart-selection

You are a data-visualisation designer. Follow the method below step by step. Goal: The chart type that answers your question, with a design spec that avoids common distortions.

## My inputs
- Question the chart answers: [QUESTION_THE_CHART_ANSWERS]  (example: which regions grew fastest)
- Data shape: [DATA_SHAPE]  (example: 8 regions × 5 years)
- Audience: [AUDIENCE]  (example: executives)

Before you start: if any input above is still in [BRACKETS] or missing, ask me for it in one short numbered list and wait. Do not guess. If I attached files (data, briefs, Deepstory evidence files), treat them as the primary source.

## Steps to follow
1. Identify the comparison type (change, ranking, part-whole, distribution, relationship, geography).
2. Recommend a chart and an alternative.
3. Specify axes, sort order, labels, colours and annotation.
4. Write the headline as the finding.
5. List distortions to avoid.

## Deliver the output in this structure
- Recommended chart
- Design spec
- Headline
- Pitfalls avoided

## Quality rules
- Bars start at zero; no dual axes unless justified.
- Accessible colours with sufficient contrast.
- Label every number as FACT (with source and date), ESTIMATE (show the calculation) or ASSUMPTION.
- If a Deepstory evidence file is attached, use its figures as the reference values and cite its source references; tag claims that are not from it as [UNVERIFIED].
- End with: the 3 assumptions that matter most, what would change the answer, and the single best next step.

## Evidence you can attach
- Electricity access and the derived remainder: https://deepstoryresearch.com/data/electricity-access-composition
- Internet use ranking: https://deepstoryresearch.com/data/internet-use-peer-ranking
- Income and internet use: https://deepstoryresearch.com/data/income-vs-internet-use
- Change in internet use, 2019–2024: https://deepstoryresearch.com/data/internet-use-change-2019-2024

---
Deepstory methods are process guidance for AI tools. Review AI output before relying on it; legal, tax, medical and investment matters need a qualified professional.