Read a Tally Chart
A tally chart is a quick way to record how many times each category appears. The marks are usually grouped in fives: four vertical marks and a fifth mark crossing them. To answer these questions, you need to read each row carefully and turn the tallies into numbers.
1) Count each group of marks
- Count the tally marks in the row.
- Remember that one complete group of five means 5.
- Add any extra single marks after the groups of five.
2) Match the count to the category
- Look at the label for the row, such as an item, color, or type.
- Write down or choose the number that belongs to that row.
- If the exercise asks for a comparison, compare the totals from the relevant rows.
3) Simplify your final answer
- If the answer is a count, give it as a single number.
- If the answer is a statement, make it clear and direct.
4) Check your work
- Recount the tally marks to be sure no mark was missed.
- Check that each group of five was counted correctly.
- Make sure your final answer matches the row asked about.
A good habit is to count in steps of five: 5, 10, 15, and so on, then add the remaining marks.