Scatter plot connected
This is a scatter plot with lines connecting the data points in a specific order — typically, to show the change in values over time. While a regular scatter plot reveals the overall pattern, a connected scatter plot emphasises the path the data takes. This can be useful for identifying turning points, fluctuations or specific periods of interest.
Make sure sure that the connection between data points has a meaningful order (e.g. time). When your x-axis represents time (e.g. years, quarters), connecting the dots shows how the relationship between the two variables evolves. Or if the order of the data points matters (e.g. steps in a process), the connected scatter plot guides the viewer through the sequence. Highlight key trends or patterns using colour or annotations. Don't use if your data points are not connected by a meaningful order or if there are fluctuations that obscure the overall trend.
To track the relationship between a company's employee engagement scores and its profitability over time, with connected dots showing the progression over quarters or years.
Over the past five years, how has your company's approach to diversity and inclusion initiatives changed?
Date/Time response, Multiple mention, Numerical response, Ranking question, Rating scale, Single mention