Computer Graphics and Data Presentation, a First Step Toward a Cognitive and Ergonomic Analysis

After a brief review of some major papers on statistical graphs and tables, this paper sketches some general principles for choosing a display form and layout suitable for compact and yet faithful transformation of statistical information. An example is provided. It is argued that cognitive task analysis and controlled experimentation are required for understanding how people read (and sometimes misread) tables and graphs. Both improved software and a better training of students are necessary.