Compound Line Graphs in Geography

What is a compound line graph?

A compound line graph is a development on the simple line graph. They show layers of data and allow you to see the proportion that makes the total.

On a compound line graph, the differences between the points on adjacent lines give the actual values. To show this, the areas between the lines are usually shaded or coloured and there is an accompanying key. This is illustrated in the compound line graph below.

When is using a compound line graph appropriate?

If information can be subdivided into two (or more) types of data, and contains continuous data, a compound line graph can be drawn.

Creating a compound line graph

Step 1 – Draw the axis

The independent variable e.g. time, should be plotted along the x-axis (horizontal). The dependent variables, which can be percentages or raw values should be plotted along the y-axis (vertical). Make sure you decide on an appropriate scale.

Step 2 – Plot the data

Plot the data for the first entry. Join the points using a ruler. Then, shade the area covered this entry. Remember to include a key.

Step 3 – Finish, shade and label 

Add the next data entry. Remember to add the value on top of the previous entry. Repeat this for all other data entries. Remember to shade each entry a different colour and add it to the key. Complete your graph by adding a title and labelling each axis.

Reading a compound line graph

The key to successfully reading a compound line graph is remembering to only calculate the value of the shaded area you are extracting data for.

Create your own compound graph