GED Math Practice Test

Which type of graph uses horizontal or vertical bars to display data?

1. Bar graph

2. Line graph

3. Pie chart

4. Table

The correct answer is: Bar graph

A bar graph is specifically designed to represent data using horizontal or vertical bars. Each bar's length or height corresponds to the value it represents, making it easy to compare different categories visually. This type of graph is particularly useful for illustrating differences in size or quantity across discrete categories, such as sales figures for various products or populations of different groups. Other types of graphs serve different purposes. A line graph, for instance, connects data points with a line and is typically used to show trends over time, while a pie chart represents data as parts of a whole using slices of a circle. A table presents data in rows and columns, providing precise values but lacking the visual comparative element that a bar graph offers.