Stacked area chart in Matplotlib - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a stacked area chart?

A stacked area chart shows how different parts contribute to a whole over time or categories. It stacks areas on top of each other to display cumulative values.

beginner

Which matplotlib function is used to create a stacked area chart?

The function plt.stackplot() is used to create stacked area charts in matplotlib.

intermediate

How do you add labels to each area in a stacked area chart in matplotlib?

You can add labels by passing a list of labels to the labels parameter in plt.stackplot() and then calling plt.legend() to show them.

beginner

Why use a stacked area chart instead of multiple line charts?

Stacked area charts show the total and the contribution of each part clearly, making it easier to see both individual and overall trends.

intermediate

What is important to consider when choosing colors for a stacked area chart?

Choose distinct, harmonious colors with good contrast so each area is easy to see and the chart is accessible to all viewers.

Which matplotlib function creates a stacked area chart?

A plt.plot()

B plt.stackplot()

C plt.scatter()

D plt.bar()

The function plt.stackplot() is specifically designed for stacked area charts.

What does each layer in a stacked area chart represent?

A A separate data series stacked on top of others

B The x-axis values

C The total sum of all data

D The chart title

Each layer shows one data series stacked to show its contribution to the total.

How do you show a legend for a stacked area chart in matplotlib?

A Use plt.xlabel()

B Use plt.title()

C Pass labels to plt.stackplot() and call plt.legend()

D No legend is possible

Labels are passed to plt.stackplot() and plt.legend() displays them.

What is a key benefit of stacked area charts?

A They are easier to read than bar charts

B They only show individual data points

C They replace pie charts

D They show both parts and total trends clearly

Stacked area charts combine individual and total trends visually.

Which color choice is best for stacked area charts?

A Distinct colors with good contrast

B All colors the same

C Random colors without thought

D Only black and white

Distinct colors help viewers differentiate areas easily.

Explain how to create a stacked area chart using matplotlib and how to add labels to it.

Think about the function and how to show what each area means.

Describe the advantages of using a stacked area chart compared to separate line charts.

Consider what the stacking adds to understanding data.