A scatter plot displays individual data points on a two-dimensional plane, revealing correlations, clusters, and outliers. Each point represents one observation plotted by its X and Y values.
The Exoplanet Zoo — Mass vs Orbital Period
Best for
- Revealing correlation or relationships between two variables
- Identifying clusters, gaps, and outliers in data
- Exploring large data sets for patterns
Avoid when
- You have categorical data on both axes — use a grouped bar chart
- There are too many overlapping points — consider a density plot
- You need to show change over time — use a line chart