Create a Dot Plot
A dot plot shows how often each value appears in a data set. Each dot stands for one data point, so repeated values are stacked above the same number.
Method
- List the data values carefully. Identify each distinct number in the set.
- Count the frequency of each value. Ask: how many times does this number appear?
- Draw a number line that includes all the values in the data.
- Place one dot for each occurrence above the matching number.
- Stack dots vertically when a value repeats. Do not spread repeated values out.
- Check your plot. The total number of dots should equal the number of data points given.
Good checks
- Every value in the data should have the correct number of dots.
- No extra dots should be added.
- The spacing on the number line should be even so the plot is easy to read.
Final check
If the exercise asks for a completed dot plot, make sure the display matches the data exactly. If you are asked to simplify a final answer, give the answer in its simplest clear form, with no unnecessary extra steps or repeated information.