Pie charts

Use pie charts to show proportions.

• Avoid using pie charts unless it would be more tedious to describe the results in words.
• Limit the number of slices shown in the pie chart. Ideally, your chart should show no more than five slices.
• Ensure that the colour or pattern used for each slice is distinct from all other slices. Make sure each is clearly labelled.
• The difference in size between slices must be obvious. Seven degrees of arc or less will not be noticed.
• If the precise values are important, then use a table instead.
• Try starting the arrangement of slices at 'twelve o'clock' on the chart and arrange slices clockwise in descending order of size.