Sources & methods

Every infographic on In a Chart is drawn by code from the numbers printed beside it. Nobody sizes a bar by hand, so the picture and the table can't disagree. Open See the numbers under any chart to read the exact values.

Where the numbers come from

We use primary sources: national statistics offices, central banks, national surveys and peer-reviewed research. Every chart names who was counted, where and when, and links its source.

How we draw them

Each story gets the form that suits its data: a receipt for how a day divides, a floor plan for living space, a clock for the hours of the night. The form changes; the rules don't. Lengths, heights and areas are proportional to the values, scales start at zero, and charts that compare things share one scale. Floor plans state gross area and are drawn to scale; the room layout inside is illustrative.

What we say about the data

We say whether a figure is a median, a mean, a total or a share, and its units. When data is missing, uncertain or measured differently across groups, we say so.

What a chart can't tell you

A chart shows what is, not why. When two things move together we don't claim one causes the other. An average says little about any one person's life.

Not advice

In a Chart offers general information. It is not financial, medical or legal advice. For a decision about your own money, health or rights, talk to a qualified professional.

When the data changes

We update a chart when a newer release of its source appears. The date on the story shows when it was published.