Scatter plots in Google Sheets - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a scatter plot used for in Google Sheets?

A scatter plot shows the relationship between two sets of numbers by plotting points on a grid. It helps you see if one number changes when the other changes.

beginner

How do you create a scatter plot in Google Sheets?

Select your two columns of data, then click Insert > Chart. In the Chart Editor, choose 'Scatter chart' as the chart type.

beginner

What do the X and Y axes represent in a scatter plot?

The X axis shows the first set of numbers (independent variable), and the Y axis shows the second set (dependent variable). Each point shows one pair of values.

intermediate

How can you add a trendline to a scatter plot in Google Sheets?

In the Chart Editor, go to the 'Customize' tab, open 'Series', then check 'Trendline' to add a line that shows the general direction of the data points.

intermediate

Why is it helpful to use a scatter plot instead of a bar chart?

Scatter plots show how two numbers relate to each other, not just their size. Bar charts compare sizes but don’t show relationships or patterns between pairs of numbers.

What type of data do you need to create a scatter plot?

A Two sets of related numbers

B Only one list of numbers

C Text labels only

D Dates and times only

Scatter plots require two sets of numbers to plot points showing their relationship.

Where do you select the scatter plot chart type in Google Sheets?

A Data > Sort range

B Insert > Chart, then Chart Editor > Setup > Chart type

C Format > Number

D Tools > Script editor

You create a scatter plot by inserting a chart and choosing 'Scatter chart' in the Chart Editor's Setup tab.

What does a trendline in a scatter plot show?

A The general direction or pattern of the data points

B The average value of all points

C The exact value of each point

D The total sum of all data

A trendline helps visualize the overall pattern or direction in the data points.

If your data points form a straight line going up, what does that mean?

A No relationship between the numbers

B As one number increases, the other decreases

C As one number increases, the other also increases

D The data is random

A rising straight line means both numbers increase together, showing a positive relationship.

Which axis usually shows the independent variable in a scatter plot?

A Neither axis

B Y axis

C Both axes

D X axis

The X axis usually shows the independent variable, the one you control or choose.

Explain how to create and customize a scatter plot in Google Sheets.

Think about the steps from selecting data to adding a trendline.

Describe what information a scatter plot can show and why it is useful.

Focus on what the dots represent and what you learn from them.